I have the pleasure of inviting you to view our Life Today episode that is airing today! Watch it online via the Life Today link below, and be blessed:
Pro-Life Speaking
Mr. McDoniel, We Need You in Makeup
Last night was truly a highlight of my journey in God’s grace and guidance. God has opened more doors and paths for this ministry than I ever asked or imagined. This most recent opportunity was an absolute blast as I got to be a guest on Life Today with James and Betty Robison. James’ story is featured on The Gift of Life film on which my story appears, also.
The night started off with a welcome and ushering into the green room which had snacks, comfy couches, and a TV. I could feel my head swell when the announcement was made, “Mr. McDoniel, we need you in makeup.” Now, that’s not my favorite thing to have done to me, but I was enjoying the attention and the VIP treatment.
Soon, we were invited to join in a private dinner with the Robison’s. It was at this meal that I learned what an amazing man James Robison truly is. As he spoke to us of his goals and convictions, I couldn’t help but be humbled. Here I was thinking how important I was…after all, I was going to be on a world-wide syndicated television show. James’ mission and faith was so inspiring that I quickly realized…I’m not the big shot…God is the big shot.
We filmed the show and it was an absolute blast. James and Betty are wonderful hosts, and they allowed us to share part of our story in hopes that more people would be reached for Christ. The 18 minute interview flew by, and soon, we were saying our farewell to the audience. I can’t wait to see the show when it airs sometime in May. Randy Robison (James’ son) interviewed me later in the evening for the Life Today website and social media outlets.
As we drove away from the studio, I was reminded of God’s infinite wisdom and grace. I’ll be the first to tell you that I never wanted to be an inspirational speaker, and never saw myself a champion of the right to life for the unborn as a pro life speaker. I felt the calling, but ignored God for years. Once I relented and agreed to let God lead, my life has never been the same. I am committed to always remember that this journey is not about me
It’s about God. (Though, I am thankful to not have to wear makeup every day…how do you ladies do it?)
Interview on AFA Radio – Gift of Life
I was interviewed this morning on AFA Radio about my story and the new film, “The Gift of Life” which is a wonderful documentary about the many positive stories that exist because someone chose life. I am featured in the documentary, which is hosted by Gov. Mike Huckabee, and you can purchase it here on my site by clicking here (scroll down, and click the DVD icon to see more information about the film).
AFA Radio has a video of the interview from this morning, so take a moment and watch the clip on their site:
A Wonderful Evening at The Gift of Life Premiere
This past Wednesday, I was in Des Moines, IA, for the premiere of “The Gift of Life” documentary. This film is the best pro-life storytelling that exists in our world, today. So many times, the term “pro-life” is received as threatening or spiteful. The thought of life being the most important topic of this presidential campaign is dangerous to some and dismissed by others. However, as was stated on Wednesday, if we don’t get this issue right, then all the other issues won’t matter. I have long held the opinion that you must share and show love in order to best represent the life that Jesus calls us to live.
The Gift of Life does a wonderful job of showing the positive side of our cause while educating as it warms the heart. Many stories of change, faithfulness, and hope are told through the wonderful cast and artful direction of the film. The film does an excellent job sharing the emotion and wonder that is life. Born or unborn, children deserve all we have and all we can do to provide a happy, fully-lived life. This film is a testament to our story, and an excellent way to introduce people who may be undecided on the issue to the truths that are the pro-life movement.
I was afforded a chance to meet one of my heroes. I don’t have much desire to meet Hollywood stars, music legends, or any other figure that America deems popular. My heroes are people who are true to their word and who fight for what is right. So, that’s why meeting Mike Huckabee was such a true honor. Governor Huckabee has fought tirelessly for the sanctity of life, and was the driving force behind the creation of this film. What was even more amazing was how truly honored he was to meet me. Even though it was a hurried moment when we met, the sincerity in his eyes and his words were felt through my entire being. Governor Huckabee has the ability to make you feel as if you were the only person in the room, and that is born out of a genuine spirit that is hard to find in today’s world. He said he was moved by my story, and was so excited to get the chance to meet me. He then brought me out on stage at the film’s conclusion to introduce me to the crowd. The other cast members soon joined us, and I am so proud to have been a part of this production. My meeting with Mike Huckabee was a moment I will never forget.
Four Republican candidates for president were there and I was able to talk briefly with Newt Gingrich and Rick Santorum. They, too, were genuine as we exchanged greetings. I must say, however, that while Rick Perry and Michelle Bachman were both in attendance, neither stayed to watch the film. I felt that decision on their part was very disrespectful, and I really appreciate Speaker Gingrich and Senator Santorum for not only staying to watch the documentary, but also for staying an hour afterwards to talk with folks about the emotions that were experienced while watching the film.
All in all, it was a fantastic evening, and I cannot say enough about the Citizens United film, “The Gift of Life.” If you consider yourself pro-life, you must see this film and you will be uplifted by it. If you have a different viewpoint, I encourage you to open your mind and heart to listen to these stories. Either way, I promise you will be encouraged by the hope and love shown in this film.
The Gift of Life Documentary Feat. Pro Life Speaker
This past summer, a documentary film crew contacted me regarding being featured in a project that Mike Huckabee was hosting. We agreed to a day of filming, and I am proud to announce the trailer for that film has been released. As a Pro Life Speaker, it is very important that this message gets spread around as much as possible as the film showcases the positive view of every life being worth living. Please take a look at the trailer below, and please visit “The Gift of Life” to learn more about how you can promote this awesome testimony for the pro life cause.
Pro Life Speaker, Chet McDoniel, in “The Gift of Life”
Article on Pro-Life Speaking in Harrisburg, PA
I recently got the chance to inspire attendees at the Morning Star Pregnancy Services banquet in Harrisburg, PA. My family got to join me, and we had a blast in the nearby town of Hershey, PA, eating tons of chocolate. Instead of me telling about the banquet, check out this article written by one of the attendees:
“I’ve enjoyed the life I’ve been given,” Chet says.
Granted, he does face challenges. He cannot walk long distances, so he uses a wheelchair. He must use his feet to drive and to type—but for him, that’s normal.
He fully recognizes that, in this age of extensive prenatal testing and ultrasounds, someone like him could easily be aborted. But, as he told the hundreds of people gathered at the Pennsylvania pregnancy center banquet, “We cannot know what life will bring.”
Read the complete article here: http://lifenews.com/state5019.html
Where Am I Going, Again?
Last week, we got to spend some time in Johnson City, KS. I know…I had to look it up, too! Johnson City is in the far southwestern corner of the state and is only a few miles from the Colorado and Texas borders. It was quite literally the “middle of nowhere.” While a remote destination, the people of Johnson City, KS, couldn’t have been a nicer bunch!
Our trip began at a Wednesday night service at Fields Memorial Wesleyan Church to a group of teenagers and adults. We had a wonderful evening of pizza, worship, and a message to get those in attendance to ponder what it means to be a positive Christian. I believe that’s the only way Christians can serve and carry out God’s will in the world…we must be a happy people!
On Thursday, I began the morning at Stanton County High School, speaking to the students there about truly living life for all it’s worth, and about not letting any obstacle get in your way. We had a blast during the question and answer time that I always try to incorporate in my school presentations. The students asked questions for a good thirty-five minutes and we had a great discussion on how to approach others with disabilities…along with some fun stuff like answering how I play Rockband 2!
Thursday night, I spoke at the Life Support Crisis Pregnancy Center’s Annual Banquet. This event was the main reason for being in Johnson City, KS, and the banquet was wonderful. So many people showed up that the hosts had to put out more tables! We met so many people with their own stories of hope and inspiration, and I loved being able to encourage and support Life Support in their efforts. We had a fabulous time with Lisa (the Exec. Director of Life Support) and her wonderful family! We felt right at home in Johnson City!
Enjoying My Role As an Inspirational Speaker
Posted in Churches, Non-Profit Speaker, Pro-Life Speaking Posted in September 29, 2009 | No Comments
This past weekend, my dad and I journeyed out to speak four times at three different locations in two different states. We first arrived on Thursday night in Wichita, KS, were I spoke to Goodwill Easter Seals of Kansas. Goodwill was celebrating the year with an awards banquet, and we watched as so many employees were rewarded for their hard work. We also heard some of the best “acceptance speeches” ever. One young lady simply walked up to the microphone after receiving her award and announced, “Woohoo!” I think the Academy Awards recipients in Hollywood need to take a cue from these Goodwill employees. It was a fantastic night, and I was so glad to get to tell my story and inspire those serving the community in Wichita, KS.
Next, on Friday, we boarded the plane headed for Sacramento, CA (after a stop back in DFW…gotta love the routing of the airlines). After landing, we drove to Stockton, CA, where we both were to speak for Stockton Pregnancy Healthcare. Their annual banquet was held at an area country club, and the dinner was “luau” themed. After eating some great food, my dad and I told our story. We had a great crowd and they were very attentive despite a loud party going on in the room next to ours. I was so impressed by what Stockton PHC has been able to do with very little financial support, and we hope that those at the banquet that evening were able to help continue the pro-life cause in Stockton, CA, with their donations.
We took Saturday to drive to San Francisco to see “Wicked.” Such an awesome show, and what a great lesson to learn about not judging others by the color of their skin.
Finally, on Sunday, we spoke twice at Quail Lakes Baptist Church in Stockton. This church was rockin’, and they were so welcoming to us. I was so impressed by the multitude of races represented in their membership. I firmly believe that God intends for our churches to reflect the racial makeup of the world around us, and it was so refreshing to see people from so many different backgrounds worshiping together. Quail Lakes Baptist and Pastor Marc are to be commended for not excluding anyone from the message of the Gospel.
In closing…I LOVE my job as an inspirational speaker!!! I was glad to get home to my family, but even though it was tough being away from home, I absolutely loved the ability to simply tell my story and for others to be touched by it. Praise God for the amazing things He is doing right before our eyes!
Walking “Hand-in-Hand”
This past week, my family and I traveled to Baltimore, MD, for the 2009 Care Net Conference. In their own words, Care Net and their network of more than 1,100 pregnancy centers offer hope to women facing unplanned pregnancies by providing practical help and emotional support. I attended the conference as an exhibitor to talk to various people about my story and pro-life speaking opportunities. The conference was wonderful and not only did I get to meet so many people, but those new people made me feel as if I were already part of the Care Net family.
While the conference was great, my favorite part of the trip was the couple of days after the conference when my daughter, Hannah, and wife, Joni, and I got to play in Baltimore. At one point during those two days, my wife told Hannah to “hold daddy’s hand while we walk” because Joni’s hands were full and we were in a crowded area. Now, before you think my wife was being insensitive, in our family, we exchange the words “foot” and “hand” all of the time when referring to me as my feet serve as my hands. We’ve never gotten hung up on word choices.
What amazed me, though, is that our 18-month daughter had already picked up on this, and when instructed, she walked right over to me and grabbed my foot. We came together in that pose many times throughout the trip, and I’m sure we will many times to come. What is so inspiring and amazing to me is Hannah’s acceptance of what is “normal” in our family. She doesn’t know any differently, so she treats me with full acceptance and love unlike the world around me that often treats me as handicapped before they get to know me. Hannah’s attitude shows what we all could be like if we simply treated others with respect and love without judging others based on looks.
I love my girl just as much as any other father loves his child, and my daughter loves me with no regard to how I look. That is amazing.
What A Day This Has Been
Two weeks ago, my dad and I were headed to Fenton, MI to speak at the Fenton Right-to-Life Annual Banquet. The morning started out just fine, however very early as we made our trek to the DFW airport around 4:30AM. American Airlines loaded us onto the plane along with everyone else who was going to Chicago (where our connection was waiting to take us on in to Flint, which is very close to Fenton).
Then, the problems began…
Right around our scheduled departure time, the pilot came on the intercom announcing a problem with the plane, and that we needed to get off this plane in order to get on a different one (hopefully, one that was working!). We quickly realized that our connection would not work as it was only a one-hour window originally, and this delay would make it impossible. American Airlines gate agents were extremely helpful, however, the next flight to Flint from Chicago would not get us to the banquet on time. They re-routed us to Detroit, however, our bags had to stay on the original schedule. That meant that our clothes, sales products, and some materials we use in the presentation wouldn’t arrive in Flint until just after 6PM. The banquet started at 6:30PM.
We decided that all was not lost. We arrived in Detroit and Enterprise was happy to transfer our rental. We drove into Flint to find a Men’s Warehouse where we could buy new clothes and have them tailored on the spot. You see, I can’t just go out and buy a new shirt because of the sleeves. The tailor at the Flint Men’s Warehouse did a great “emergency” job. We called the director of the Right-to-Life group, and she was very gracious and even happy that we were in town. She said as long as we were there that evening, she would be pleased.
Well, our bags arrived while we were at the banquet and my cousin who lives nearby was able to grab them at the airport and rush them over to us. The table of sales materials was set up while we were speaking, and the DVD and CD we needed for the presentation arrived with only a minute or two to spare.
All in all, the evening was a complete success. And, not only that, but our day was not ruined by all of the travel issues. Keeping a positive outlook on the day allowed us to not worry, and to be ready to deliver our message that evening.
Remember, only you can ruin your own day!
