What I Enjoy – Jonathan Anderson
Jonathan Anderson
CEO, Good News Rescue Mission
If you weren’t in your current job, what career role would you envision yourself in? It would be something centered around both leadership and soul care, two things which I am passionate about. I have a genuine love for people and helping them thrive in life.
If you could travel to any era in history, where and when would you go? I would love to see pre-colonial North America.
If you had to choose a spirit animal that represents your leadership style or personality, what would it be? Friends often refer to me as an old soul, like the owl.
What is the last book your read or book you’ve read that has left a lasting impression? “The Crushing” by TD Jakes. Speaking hope to the crushing moments that life brings us, he says, “Grapes are raised to be crushed. There’s something that happens to us when we are crushed that gives us resilience and tenacity. The greatest part of you is still somewhere down inside of you and only pressure will get it out.”
Where do you go to unwind? Near and dear to my heart is finding solitude in nature; an alpine lake, on top of a mountain ridge, swimming in the ocean or even a stroll through the vineyards at the Abbey of New Clairvaux. The key is to silence the outside noises of daily emails and to-do lists.
What’s one experience you’ve always wanted to have? So many. Near the top of my bucket list for the United States is a concert date night with my wife at the Red Rock Amphitheater in Colorado.
Do you have any hobbies that might surprise people? I love hobbies! From welding to music, I seem to do it all, but one that might surprise people – I have an obsession with eating the world’s hottest peppers!
If you could invite three people, living or dead, to a dinner party, who would you chose? Why? The biblical character Moses, because I have so many questions. Abraham Lincoln, because I am fascinated just as much by his failures as I am his successes. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., because I cherish his wisdom and inspiration.
What is your favorite quote? “The other side of fear is freedom. The other side of pain is growth. The other side of conflict is relationship.”
