First, I’m sorry. I’m sorry I don’t usually go as deep as I will in this article. Maybe I should do this more. You tell me. Also, what I’m about to say may lead people to opt out of my newsletter and choose never to read my blog articles again. I’m OK with that. Why? Do what you need to do: love it, hate it, or take time to think about it. You are the CEO of your life. Me too.
I’ve had some great conversations while traveling and leading workshops in Australia. Some of the best conversations and questions came up over coffee or while driving in the car. I don’t remember exactly how it came up this last time. I think someone asked about where my consistent on-stage energy comes from.
I could tell you it is my passion and my enthusiasm. I could tell you I’m not sure, but that would not be the whole truth. First, I will tell you that part of it comes from remembering that every time we get on stage is a gift. We never know when we will take the stage for the last time. Part of my energy does come out of appreciation for that fact. This also goes along with what I learned from Mark Brown back in 2001 when Mark saw me start to get overconfident and lust after the trophy. He pulled me back to earth and grounded me when he said,
“Darren, you will have the privilege of 2,000 lives for seven minutes. What will you do with that?”
Yikes! The mindset shift helped, and it still keeps my ego grounded.
So, what’s the whole truth? God. I work for Him. Which is why I wear an “I am Second” bracelet as a reminder. Since I first attempted stand-up comedy back in 1992, I have been getting on my knees and asking God for help. Yes, there were times when I forgot or strayed and didn’t think I needed His help. My occasional “I’ve got this” attitude never worked out very well for me in the end. Now that my faith has grown, I ask the Holy Spirit to speak through me. It works. I have to let go of control and be in the moment. I pray even before every webinar. Sometimes, when deeply connected, I say things that I never planned or intended. They tend to be just what someone needs. Occasionally I forget for a moment and say to myself, “Where did that come from?” I know.
I’ve found out that some of my favorite speakers do that as well. When I learned this fact, it enhanced my own conviction and belief. Now it is a regular part of what I do. The cool side effect is that it takes some pressure off as well. Sometimes when it doesn’t go well, I think that without Him it surely would have been worse. He does not guarantee an amazing outcome every time. Remember, His plan, not ours. It is reassuring to know we are not really alone up there.
In some of my conversations with believers and non-believers, the reactions were surprising. Some believers don’t always ask for help, and the non-believers seemed to respect my perspective. Cool. I think the conversations made them think. I hope this article makes you think. Patricia Fripp says that learning happens in moments of reflection.
Reflect.
Sincere Truth in Stage Time,
Darren
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Thanks for always being real Darren even at the risk of offending someone. You are an inspiration!!
Best,
Guy
Hey Brother,
As I mentioned on Saturday, there are many experiences and stories I could’ve shared about you… The one I “choose” to share, is the one that I believe, most people don’t know about you (but should)… you are a man of faith, a man who prays, and a man who seeks (and needs) the guidance of our Father in Heaven… daily.
When I think about those 5 days hanging out with you… that is what inspires me the most!
Keep doing what you’re doing brother, because Romans 8:28 is a promise we’ll see come to pass in our lives!
Mahalo Ke Akua – Me Kealoha Pumehana,
Cain
I dont get it. why would someone want to opt out, hate or delete your post. great honesty and insight but you need to shave your wrist..
Darren, I agree. The truth is not popular. More people need to hear it. Thanks!
Loved this post. No need to apologize for the topic.It’s good news. It is real and it is you. (It is also me!) God bless you with overflowing peace and joy. (See John 7:37-39)
Daily I pray: “I believe in You. Let your rivers of living water flow through me to others.” (There is an old gospel hymn called “Channels Only.” That’s us!) Shalom, Linda
Hi Darren,
Thanks for being authentic. I liked you before, now I REALLY do! See ya’ next week in Vegas. I’m excited to learn from you guys and a gal.
Shannon
Thank you for taking a chance and sharing The whole Truth, Darren.
A piece of scripture has just to come to me…
“And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself”
John 12:32
God bless you Darren
Sean
Darren I’m proud of you for being such an authentic leader!
Romans 1:16
Curtis
Thank you for sharing this, Darren!!! Your message resonates deeply with me and I know this to be true for me as well. Whenever I go out on stage before any audience on my own strength, I will have this sinking feeling that I missed something big, but when I put God first, no matter how badly things go, I know it was for His purpose. When great things happen as a result of that dependence on Him, I know it has very little to do with me. Grateful that I read this. Thank you.
Excellent.Be true to who you are, including your faith.
Thanks Darren and I agree with your perspective. Every day we receive is a gift from God and we must make the best use of it we can. I am a Toastmaster and also a lay preacher in the local Lutheran Church. When called upon to preach I ask God what is the message he wants me to convey. As I type I frequently pray and the words fly off my keyboard. This week my text is Jesus’ instruction that when we do the least for someone we do it also for him. Your words are so timely as I believe you do exactly that!
Thank you. I appreciate how you tied public speaking to faith. I, too, have been surprised at something that I revealed in a speech and wondered “where did that come from”. Now I am convinced that it’s God.
What a beautiful testimony, Darren.
Blessings,
Roxann
Darren – thanks for your insights and wisdom. This is a message we can all benefit from.
AMEN!
I salute you for this, Darren.
God bless.
Hi Darren,
I am a Muslim, and you are a Christian, but we are on the same page, and same frequency.
Stay blessed and be Happy, my friend.