​I was sitting in the Montevideo gym for my granddaughter’s baccalaureate service, listening to the preacher deliver his message. As I looked out at the graduates, a thought hit me: If I could talk to myself at 18 years old, knowing what I know now, what advice would I give him?

​What would I tell that young, sharp-looking 18-year-old—fresh out of high school, packed up, and heading to Alexandria Tech in the fall of 1976?

​I would look him in the eye, smile, and tell him this:

​1. Put Christ at the Center of Everything

​First and foremost, I’d tell him that nothing is more important than his relationship with Jesus. I’d advise him to start every single day in the Word, to be consistent with early morning Bible readings and devotions, and to ask God for a lifelong passion for scripture.

​I’d tell him to make Christ the cornerstone of his future marriage and the blueprint for raising his family. You won’t teach your future kids about faith through perfect words, but through unconditional love, forgiveness, and a life lived with integrity. Keep your eyes fixed on Him. The world will change, the technology will change, and the years will fly by, but His faithfulness will be the one constant through every single chapter of your life.

​2. Pick a Career You Love So Much You’d Do It for Free

I’d tell him not to doubt himself the first time the microphone turns on. That was a boys basketball game in Granite Falls. My first time broadcasting on KLQP. I would assure him that the knots in his stomach during those early broadcasts will eventually turn into a 40-year passion.

​”Embrace every local high school game in small-town gyms,” I’d say. “Treasure every interview with local farmers and athletes.” Those moments aren’t just a job; they are the foundation of becoming the “Voice” of a community. Through God’s grace, it will turn into a career so meaningful that people will eventually write profile stories about it in the newspaper.

​3. Hold Fast to Your High School Sweetheart

​I’d look him right in the eye and say, “That girl, Roxie? Hold onto her.”

​I’d tell him that the love they share at 18 isn’t just a passing high school phase—it’s the beautiful, rock-solid partnership that will span nearly five decades. I’d remind him to cherish the quiet moments early on and to serve her daily. They are building a foundation that, with God’s help, can weather any storm. Love her deeply.

​4. Get Ready for a Beautiful, Loud, Busy Life

I’d give him a heads-up that life is about to get a lot bigger, louder, and more rewarding than he can possibly imagine. I’d tell him to get ready for four incredible kids—Joshua, Jeremy, Brandon, and Brianna—and eventually, a whole crew of grandkids. In-laws that I will love like they are my own child.

​I’d tell him: “Soak up every single milestone. Every birthday party, every sporting event you’ll attend as a proud dad and grandpa, and every family gathering.” It goes by in a flash. You blink and you’re 68 years old. As a father, you will always wish you had done more, done better, and been more present. But remember to give yourself grace—the deep love you have for them, and the prayers you cover them in, will be their ultimate anchor. Make them your priority, always.

​5. Stay Rooted and Keep Your Passions Alive

​I’d tell him that true fulfillment doesn’t come from a bank account, but from the deep connections made right where you live. Value the people you meet at county fairs, high school games, local ice fishing tournaments, and community events. The relationships built on the airwaves and on Main Street are what turn a town into a home, and a career into a legacy. Be involved!

And finally, never lose your enthusiasm for the simple things that bring you joy. Keep cheering hard for the Vikings, the Gophers, the Twins, the Bison, and the Jackrabbits. And never apologize for your tastes—whether that’s a perfect slice of New York-style thin crust or a sauerkraut pizza!

​The Ultimate Takeaway

​Ultimately, I’d look at that young man in 1976, wrap an arm around his shoulder, and say:

​“Trust your gut, work hard, love deeply, be kind, and enjoy the ride. Your relationship with Jesus will give you great joy, your family will give you great joy, and your work will give you great joy. Walk by faith, young man. You’re going to build a life you can be incredibly proud of.”