We can attribute our personal growth as a man, to the many men who stand before us; those we look up to and rely on as a source of strength.

Looking back over my life, I can identify a number of key men who challenged and encouraged me to stand courageous through various seasons in my life.

My Father, whom I look up to in many ways, stood for years as a police officer, upholding the law; as well as a leader in the church, upholding His call. To summarize the impact my dad has had on me would be an impossible task; Our family and my faith grounded in the foundation he and my mom formed. In countless ways, his example and presence in my life has shaped so much of who I am.

My Brothers, who grew up beside me. Each of us unique and yet intertwined in a way I will share with none other. Words cannot explain the assurance found in a brother who has your back in this world; In my case, I am fortunate to have two.

My Teacher, who stood as a principal in the school board while also giving his time to instructing young men in God’s word. It was through my many doubts and questions that he patiently listened; providing guidance to stand on the Truth.

My Mentor, who stands as a counsellor and coach to men as they navigate marriage and parenthood. I remember a time, shortly after our family faced a health crisis, that I found myself in a bad place. It was through his coaching and encouragement that I was able to recover and stand again as a husband and father.

My Friend, who for years maintained a large property and farm; uniquely displaying for me, God’s hand at work in the natural world. He seemed to always be available for me to drop in and walk the grounds. Conversing together, we pondered the similarities between us, the trees standing above us and the stubborn goats walking around us. These times with him, undoubtedly acted as a huge inspiration for many of the images found in my writing.

And most recently, My Pastor, who through his genuine and selfless care, shattered any and all doubt I held towards leaders in the church from previous experiences. His unwavering support through the darkest moment in my life will forever act as a pillar to my faith.

Every one of these men acted in practical ways yes, but also understood the value of giving their time and energy to deeper matters which ultimately will stand the test of time.

It was through these Giants in my life, that I have come to understand what genuine growth looks like; growth that does not rely on earthly means, but by God alone. 

What I have found is that seeking growth in areas outside of my heart; be it career or status, may initially give a feeling of accomplishment, but it is short-lived. Soon after, leaving a sense of emptiness inside that can be likened to a root dying out in shallow soil.

In contrast, spiritual growth holds its value over time, providing rich soil to thrive and go deeper in. This “heart-growth” inevitably bears many fruits… peace, courage and hope to name a few; all of which bring great benefit to our lives.

I am beyond blessed to have had a forest of mature, wise men around me growing up; men who cultivated and opened my heart to allow God’s seed to take root in me. As a result of their lives, I now stand. 

And yet, sadly I know there are many men who haven’t had this support in their lives and as a result, may lack stability within. My heart breaks every time I hear of a fellow man falling or being ripped down because every one of us holds eternal value and is desperately needed in this world.

It is out of this, that Core Roots was humbly formed. Knowing that deep within every man is a place of great significance, his core… his heart. This heart is in need of genuine care and support, because only through establishing strong roots here, can a man ever truly stand forever.

It is my deep desire that all men can be like the tree described in Jeremiah 17:8, which says:

“He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its Roots by the stream. It does not fear when the heat comes, its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.”

But we can’t do this alone…

We must stand Together