Brandon Cochran

Let's get it started...

2010-10-08T00:15:00.000-07:00

So, it's exactly 1:30 in the morning... Have to go to the doc tomorrow to get a check up and hope I am doing better. I am basically pumping crisco through my heart and not proud of that, especially at the age of 26. Anyways, I am excited to say that things are going really well for me. However, it seems surreal actually. I have been working like crazy the past several months beginning at the start of summer up until now. I think my body is finally saying "Stop!"

Seems as though my immune system is taking a beating. I rarely got sick as a kid, but now it is all to easy for me to have stomach aches or migraines. Is that just me getting old or what? Hopefully, after I start my new job/career I will be on a decently normal schedule for once. I don't know what I will do with free evenings?!?

Ok so some new information for you readers. I am changing my last name as some of you know or may not know. I have been Brandon Cochran for almost 26 years and now I am going by Brandon Morgan, which is my family's last name (Mother's maiden name). I should have done this years ago, but might as well get it done now. Kind of strange doing away with Cochran. It has been sort of like my legacy, and now it is all about to change. Let's get it started...

I am ready for change at this point in my life. The past few years have been fairly rough. Losing my mom was by far the hardest and has effected for years. Although, I did not realize for awhile I was having a hard time with depression. To make things worse my relationship with God started to suffer as well. It did not suffer because I was angry with Him or anything, but because I became to preoccupied to live a life that focused on Him and obeyed Him. It is unfortunate how we neglect the most important things sometimes. For instance, we neglect our health all the time with what we put in it. Sadly, we won't take the time to realize our health determines our life. We all seem to think we will live forever, and if we do finally have a revelation it is often too late.

Here are a few things I have learned or really latched onto this past two weeks... God doesn't wait to use us when we are perfect. Why do I get so caught up into thinking I can't be used until I am at a certain milestone with my faith? True, I should always strive to have the best relationship with God that I can, and do my best to love others, but God has a purpose for me now and can use ME right where I am.

Secondly, faith without works is dead. A lot of us Christians have probably heard this at some point in our lives, or even several times in church. Funny how although we "know" something we do not truly understand it. I was thinking about this while listening to a song the other day. My life right now, or should I say my faith, is dead. Wow!!! Yeah, I just said that and it isn't easy to admit. I can say all day that I have faith and be a good person, but if I just sit around and wait for things to happen I am living a faithless life. Our faith requires action! I am not sure what action I should take first, but how about loving people better and being more purposeful?

How about I open His word and dwell on it instead of skimming to see how much I can accomplish in one reading? Most importantly, how about I take time to consider others above myself and give rather than take? This all makes sense and sounds good, right? So, why don't we do something about it? It is not that we are awful people and I have some comfort in knowing I am not alone in this fight. Complacency is so dangerous and routine sounds so good. I don't want to live a "safe" life where I don't take some risks or get out of my comfort zone.

I feel change coming like a cool breeze. New blood passing through my veins giving breath a new meaning. Time seems to be waiting on me to make the next move. Stairs await their formation in anticipation of my next step. Do I go, or do I stay? What chain of events will occur if I choose either? Is it even right for me to stand still? Is it my duty, or my freedom, that compels me to move forward? I choose forward. I choose the duty of freedom. I choose having no regrets of not making a move.

There are just a few almost poetic thoughts that sum up how I feel right now. I am optimistic and I know that there is no better time than the present to start doing things right. Sure, I have my shortcomings. I am sure I have let a few people down. However, I am not here to please everyone, and if you are my friend then why make me live in such misery as to only focus on pleasing you? I love my friends, but sometimes I get used. I know I have used friends too, so I am not proclaiming to be without fault.

Here is my new philosophy with friends though. Are you my friend? Then show me. Don't just show your face when the weather is nice. Don't blow fairy dust in my face and make me think things are great, then turn on me as if you don't know me the very next day. Invest in me a little too and you might be surprised to find a great friend in me. I may not be what you thought I was, but maybe that's just the point.

Well, there are some of my random thoughts. I don't mean to call anyone out, but at the same time let's all get off of our high horses (including myself) and live for something other than ourselves. Shall we?

Let's get it started...

Another Day...

2010-06-21T17:22:00.000-07:00

Well it has been awhile hasn't it? Right now I am listening to some Coldplay: Trouble. Favorite band now for awhile but haven't listened to them in awhile. Honestly, there's a lot of things I use to love that I have just lost touch with. Good or bad? Really not sure, but all I know is that I'm slowly coming around full circle. Speaking of that... I really need to start reading my Bible again. I dusted it off a day or two ago and that's about as close to reading it as I got. However, I have read a verse or two from my Iphone, but that probably doesn't really count.

Been on a cleaning spree and it feels good to have everything in place for once! I even gave the dog a bath. No... that's not my dog, but you get the point. Crazy how having a clean room, fresh smelling pup, and a fresh shave can make you feel so good. Have at least two bags of clothes to donate to the HOPE Center. I just had way too many clothes and unfortunately I had to throw many away due to my dog chewing zippers and buttons. Grrr!

Yes it's true. I have a wonderful girlfriend and I am glad to report it is going very well. She is super sweet and hey I think she even loves me ;) Doesn't get any better than that, or does it? I don't think so. She doesn't say much, but she knows how make my bad days better. Got a birthday coming up and it seems like it will be just another day... 26 years already? This is weird! Can't be that old already. Well that's all I got right now. Side note: trying to get into shape other than round, so let ya know how that goes :)

What is it?

2010-01-11T21:12:00.000-08:00

Life... So complex. Laughter and fear exist together. So many words, but not a strong enough mouth.

Heart fights to beat without any notice at all. Eyes open in rhythm. Breath gives life to each cell.

The smallest look is captivating. Spiral with no end in sight. Does she have... a name?

Over and over I pass by it. Too busy to give appreciation.

Time keeps moving on. Doesn't respect anyone.

Which memories will last?

What to keep and what to throw away?

Can it be grasped?

Tell me to stay. Yesterday is another life.

I'd rather be with you.

Warmth created by friction.

Coolness by separation.

Reach out for what they say is impossible. Tell them it is worthy.

Just for you

2010-01-09T17:04:00.000-08:00

Well I am in the groove of things...

I have been working like crazy sincce I graduated and it feels good to be making a little money for once. However, I have realized what a vicious cycle it is already. Get up go to work all day (tell yourself you will have time for fun later), go to bed early because you are too tired to do anything else lol. So this is what life is all about???

I am keeping to the grind with my head held high. I am not doing exactly what I want to do, but I know God has plans for me (Jeremiah 29:11). This is my favorite verse because it reminds me daily that there is a purpose to what I am doing when I am following HIM. He will guide my steps and lead me in the right direction. I have learned that at times that the path is not always as I would have planned it.

So, I have had an Iphone now for about 3 months. I was so
excited to get it and it has been an amazing tool for me. I use it continuously throughout the day. Well I was at work and stepped out of the van at a jobsite... as I stepped out of the van my phone fell out of my coat pocket (which I don't normally put there) and it fell face first onto the concrete. I was a little scared but figured it was tough and it had a case anyways. Picked it up and to my dismay this is what I saw...

So not happy about it!!! Called Apple to find out it would cost me $200 to fix it, but that's what I paid for the phone using my upgrade! Another place said $100, but I decided to buy the part myself since screen still works I just needed the top piece of glass. It was only $30 and I figured since I am a glazier (professional glass cutter) I should be able to do it according to instructional video. We will see how that goes when it gets here :)

Anyways, I am about to pick up my pup from the groomer. It's her first time at a groomer and she has been there for over 3 hours now lol. I bet they are having a blast trying to wash her down and trim her up! She does good for me, but goes crazy around other dogs and people with excitement. By the way, cleaning house is no fun! I have been cleaning almost all day! This is for the birds!

More to come shortly... thanks for stopping by. You stay classy!

One more this week

2009-12-08T23:28:00.000-08:00

So I am trying to develop more of a social presence online... so here I am take it or leave it lol.

I should be in bed since I have a final @ 9am, but instead I am relaxing and chatting with a friend of mine. I am graduating in 3 days!!! I am hoping the weather is ok considering my family wll be heading this way.

Does life really change that much after you graduate college???

This week has been pretty good so far. Had some encouraging words spoken to me at exactly the right time, and feeling like I am on the right path. That, of course, feels great! I put Christmas lights up and my house is looking fantastic. Definitely best looking one on my street!

Don't have a lot more to say right now, but will try to do better!

Been Awhile...

2009-12-07T20:21:00.000-08:00

Alright, so I have been very busy the past few months. I cannot believe it, but I am finally graduating from the University of Central Oklahoma with a Bachelor's degree in Interpersonal Communication. My graduation will be on December 12 @ 2pm. It has been a long process, but a great learning process as well.

I am excited to see all of my family as they come to support me and only wish my mother was here to see me as well. I know she would be very proud that I stuck with it and finished as I said I would do. I have traversed this long road and I have come out stronger than when I started. It was my mother's stubborness inside me that has kept me going. I have to, of course, give all the glory to God who has ultimately made this all come to pass.

It may sound cliche, but this is a dream come true in itself. I always wondered as a kid if I would actually go to college. My parents did not go to college and there was not many people around me that did. So, to say the least there were a lot of unexpected challenges leading up to college and during college. Honestly, I am glad my way was not paved in gold, because I think I have learned so much more by experiencing it as I go.

My family has played a major role in my completion of college. Whether it be through support through finances, prayers, or advice I could not have kept my head up and been so strong without them. Now, I must discover myself again as a college graduate and gravitate to the next stage of life. I am not sure where that will lead and I am honestly not too concerned. I am currently a glazier for a glass company and I plan on going full time after graduation. I have no idea if this will be what I continue to do or not, but there is room for advancement.

I do know some things about myself professionally though. I know that I am a people person who loves communicating through many mediums. I love analyzing people and their processes. I like to build things and see how they work hands on. I have discovered that, generally, people gravitate toward me and that is a source of daily encouragement for me. I have a lot of experience in a variety of areas. I have done several different kinds of construction, worked for a bank for over two years, managed people, worked with kids, youth pastored (shortly), done legal work, worked at a vet, done non profit work, and even worked as a security guard.

This all shows me that I can do anything if I put my mind to it and give the credit to God who gives me the strength to persevere. I do wonder where I will be in 5-10 years. I wonder if I will be a successful businessman, maybe full time in the ministry, or something completely different. I do need to focus on making a little bit of money to pay students loans off, but overall I want to be satisfied in whatever I am doing. Up until a few days ago, I really never knew anyone could go to work day to day for over 30 years and not resent going in. It goes to show me that no career is perfect, but you can make the most of any career or situation if you are satisfied in yourself and God.

Ah... The wonderful weather

2009-04-26T18:49:00.001-07:00

I was just inspired to write about the amazing day I have had today. Went to church this morning which was good and I learned a little more about what it looks like to be attacked by Satan in ways that seemingly go unnoticed at times. Decided to go to the arts festival with some friends and out of all the years I have gone this was the best one weather wise. It has been a real chill and relaxing day.

I almost so relaxed right now that I almost fell asleep just now lol. Anyways, today has just been a real peaceful day. There are a lot of new and exciting things in the works, so we will have to see how it all goes. I am read y for the end of the semester that's for sure. I am now working at the Hope Center in Edmond and enjoying that. I am also going to start back at White Water next month which will be good times as well.

I can't wait to go to the lake as much as I possibly can and even do some bow fishing. I need to work on my tan, but I do have a pretty sweet farmer's tan right now:) I think I may start a pretty intensive workout plan this coming week, so watch out for my buffness to come. I am possibly going to see the new Star Trek movie on the 7th with my roommate Brandon. By the way, my best friend Brandon has moved in with me and it's been a good time so far. A couple cookouts already under our belt and we are hopefully going to get a boat soon.

This seems to wrap up my random thoughts for the evening so I will let you return to your own reality. Have a great day and as always God bless!

Snowed In

2008-12-15T18:55:00.000-08:00

So I am in Flagstaff Arizona... and I will possibly be here awhile. It's been a fun trip to San Diego, CA., but we were ready to get back home. God had other plans I suppose for us. I just drove through snow covered mountain tops pulling a 12 foot trailer. This should be an interesting trip for sure!!!

Anyways, so far so good and hopefully all goes well the rest of the way. At least it's nice to see some good looking snow on the ground. I am going to pelt Kris with the biggest snowball I can find. Merry Christmas everyone

P.S. I don't mean "Happy Holidays" or I would have said that. lol

Peace

Brando

Lights On

2008-12-05T21:29:00.000-08:00

Today was a particularly relaxing day. Took the day off for myself and enjoyed spending it with friends and put up some Christmas lights. You know there is just something about getting out in the cold and putting lights up. For me, it's a way to say "welcome." I had four good friends here with me today, randomly. Two came to help with lights, one came because he cut his toe with a chainsaw and needed to chill at my house while waiting for his wife to pick him up. (you know who you are) The other came to help a little and reassure me that the lights were looking good.

Amongst all the commotion I realized that I have been extremely blessed with great friends in my life. Life is always easier when you have someone to spend it with. Not just those "friends" that give you a call every once in awhile, but those who pray for you even if you think they wouldn't. I have a joy right now that does surpass my own understanding. Peace is my friend right now and we have been separated for awhile.

I am enjoying the warmth I feel both from the wall heater and my friends and family. I bought myself a John Deere stocking today because I couldn't pass it up, and it was cheap! Well I thought today was great and it needed to be shared.

Special thanks to "highspeed" for being taller than me and helping with the lights today :)

Thanks!

2008-11-26T19:15:00.000-08:00

Well tomorrow is Thanksgiving!!! I am pretty excited about Thanksgiving and very thankful to be in a suburb of Chicago called Beecher. First Thanksgiving out of state for me, but it will be a good one.

Sometimes we forget how truly blessed we are sometimes to just have family no matter how many or few we have. The best part too is just simply knowing you are loved. Everyone has been spoiling me since I have been here, but honestly it is not the spoiling that makes me feel loved it is just the sincerity I feel from each of them. I came a month or so ago and before that I had not been here in ten years! Time goes by so quickly.

I have missed this side of the family so much and I am so glad I had the amazing opportunity to spend quality time with them this year! God has been even more amazing and I thank Him for the blessings HE has given me. Life is hard sometimes, but God is always bigger than life. God is love.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

P.S. Don't forget to give it! God loves it!

Some how...

2008-11-21T16:31:00.000-08:00

Kind of funny how things work out sometimes. Have you ever been in a place where you wondered how you would make it to the next day?

I can honestly say I know what it's like to go without. I have had times in the past where I went without as a child, but it's a little different when you are an adult. The kind of "without" I am talking about is not just a luxury or want either.

Money seems to make the world go around, but it really does not. I have been stressing for awhile about money and how I would make it through without it. However, God always provides, even if it is not money that HE provides. HE brings people along sometimes to help or sometimes HE does not. It is pretty humbling not knowing where your next meal will come from or if you will have electric to use.

One constant thing in my life is God. No matter what HE is real and HE loves me. Unfortunately, some of us have to go through dark tunnels to really appreciate the light. My family has come together to help me out and I have even had good friends step up in my life to lend a helping hand. It is such a blessing to have people surrounding me. Sometimes I don't know my next step and I imagine people around me are confused about what I am doing too.

God is in control. The bottom line is that God knows my steps HE watches over me

Psalms 121: 5-8

5 The LORD watches over you—
the LORD is your shade at your right hand;

6 the sun will not harm you by day,
nor the moon by night.

7 The LORD will keep you from all harm—
he will watch over your life;

8 the LORD will watch over your coming and going
both now and forevermore.

First of Many

2008-11-18T18:20:00.000-08:00

I thought I would try blogging, since I may have a lot of changes coming. Maybe everyone will be able to keep up with me wherever I end up going this way. Not too sure where I am moving, but it is going to happen within less than a month.

Here are my choices: Arkansas, Illinois, or somewhere local.

A lot on my plate right now and I need to figure some things out for once. Pleasing people has not got me where I want to be. That may sound selfish but I need to do something for me for once. The important thing is that I am putting my trust in God that HE will lead me to where I am supposed to go. HE may have me stay nearby, but right now it is not seeming that way.

Pray for me because there are a lot of unanswered questions in my mind and a limited time to make some big decisions.