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Bob Buford – Introduction
Bob Buford was put in the unique position of knowing what he would like to do when he
"grew up", but not knowing exactly where or when that might be.
I first met Bob at a young presidents organization meeting where I heard him relate the story he told about how he had decided to write his book
"Half Time" in 1993. He told the story with such great conviction that I went up to not only thank him for the message, but also to thank him for his sincere delivery.
It's one thing to
get a vision, think it through clearly, and then try to share it with another person or a group of people with such conviction that they see how it would apply to their lives. Bob simply put it so succinctly that each of us
could relate immediately. He sent me a copy, and as I read through the first half of his life, I was able to see not only myself, but so many of my good friends and associates in the dilemma. How do we separate the success
portion of our lives, whatever that means, to the portion of our lives which spells out the significance, whatever that means. We males have a tremendously difficult time being able to define our lives in such a way, or with
that meaning and purpose, as to be able to know one set of circumstances from the other.
It took a major tragedy in Bob's life to help him put definition to his dilemma. As I thought about his
situation, the first thing that came to mind was, what would I do if a similar tragedy happened to my family. We have been blessed by having three very talented very healthy boys, and I don't have a clue what would happen if we
lost one of them, but Bob lost his only child.
Bob has been able to take that tragedy, and together with Linda, they have rebuilt their family unit around each other with a love and determination that has been extremely
encouraging to those of us that have been privileged enough to know them, and to know what is more important to them than anything else in the world, their love for God and for each other.
After
hearing his story and reading the book, I felt that every business and professional man in the world ought to hear the story, or better yet, read the book. I asked Bob if he would be willing to share his story at a YPO (Young
Presidents Organization) vision and values seminar. Which we were putting together in San Diego, and he did.
Bob has been willing to make his study available for every possible opportunity, which
has come his way. I praise God for men like Bob who are willing to make their time, talent, and treasure available to make a difference for the kingdom of God, and help give definition to "What is Half Time". He truly
puts his money where his conviction is. Bob wants to help you make a life, not just a living by helping you define your half time.
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