Looking back with Joy... Stepping forward with Hope

I have been working in the technology field for more than 30 years. In this time, I have had more than a few opportunities to change jobs for one reason or another. I have left jobs that were dragging me down (or usually a boss); I have been requested to leave; and I left for a bigger title, money, or prestige.

Today, I am leaving my position at Topgolf and stepping out to a new opportunity. But this time, I am leaving with the joy of working in a great place with caring people who live out the mission of Topgolf. After 6 1/2 years, I am able to step away from one of the best and brightest teams I have ever led with hope and excitement. I am excited for the next phase for Topgolf in general and Swing Suite specifically. I am excited and hopeful for the next phase in my career.

"As I finish one more step in my journey, I say goodbye to Topgolf and prepare for a new career and passion."

Over 2 months ago, I was contacted through LinkedIn and started a journey with an opportunity that has already, and will continue, to change my life.

For those of you who know me personally, you know I am man of deep passion and personal faith. I am not always successful in living up to the example of Christ, but I am always striving toward this end and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to me and teach me.

My work in my career has focused on technology, and it has often complimented my volunteer work in the PTA, my local church, and Texas HOPE Literacy. But never, has my ministry or service to my community been linked directly to my career.

That one LinkedIn message from Compassion International changed all of that.

I am looking forward to taking my next step. I am excited and full of hope as I will be able to use what I have experienced and learned to work in technology, while making a meaningful difference in the lives of children, families and communities.

The mission of Compassion International is: "Releasing children from poverty in Jesus' name". This is a mission of love. We each live out our personal mission with our response to others. Compassion is living out our faith by caring for others.

"Compassion means 'to suffer with,' and it combines sympathy with an active response."

If you are or ever have sponsored a child in a developing country, then you have already made this active response. If you have thought about this, and just haven't taken the step, then you can take this step. I believe that poverty is an economic, social, and spiritual problem and you can only release the bondage of poverty by addressing the needs of the whole person.

As I step out into my new journey, I am inviting all of you to join me. You can sponsor a child today.

Today I say, goodbye to so many friends at Topgolf who I could not begin to name. I will remember you and watch your progress. I will cheer you when you are victorious and pray for you and encourage you when you fail. Remember that failing some things is how we accomplished so many great things.

In accordance with LinkedIn etiquette, I will not update my profile with my new title or department until after my start date. Stay tuned for more on this journey.

I'm sure the best has not been seen.