God had yet to call me into full time ministry, but I was eager to grow in my relationship with Jesus Christ and the "new kid" in a new church and new youth group.
Somehow, one of the youth leaders had convinced me to join the youth group at a week-long, high school youth conference, Summer in the Son at Kentucky Christian College. Little did I know God would you this youth conference and Gene Wilder to radically transform me from the shy new kid to a bold-as-could-be, spit-fire, risk-taker for the Kingdom.
The transformation itself took place in a "Drama" workshop led by speaker/comedian Tim Jones. During the first day of the workshop, Tim introduced the students to the concept of "Chutzpah" (one's willingness to be audacious, bold and courageous). Tim explained that those with great stage presence were always willing to take the risk to look stupid and go for it, even if they only have one line on stage.
Then we were shown this clip of Gene Wilder from Blazing Saddles:
Tim proceeded to emphasize the importance of "milking the moment" of every line, just like Gene Wilder did.
I'm not sure what happened during that week in Tim Jones' workshop, but I vividly recall thinking "have some chutzpah, go for it" before I would share my faith with someone, get on stage to speak, or take a risk for the Kingdom of God. I have utilized the "Chutzpah Principle" for the last 24 years and will continue to do so. No more fear of failure. No more stage fright.
Thank you Tim Jones.
Thank you Gene Wilder.
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