Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jordan Burk. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Jordan, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
My parents played a crucial role in building my confidence. My Dad’s support for my art and creativity, along with my Mom’s encouragement for writing and education, laid the foundation for my success. Co-writing “Burgers, Coffee, and a Smile: Kelly’s Story” with her has been an incredible honor and a testament to their belief in me.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
For almost fourteen years, I dedicated my time to caring for my uncle Kelly, who had Down syndrome. His presence in my life inspired a profound journey, one that led me to channel my experiences into creating children’s books. The first, inspired by Kelly, revolves around a character named Kelly, aimed at educating children about Down syndrome.
Expanding my focus, I delved into writing books that explore characters with different abilities, addressing conditions such as vitiligo and alopecia. Taking the message beyond the pages, I embarked on a mission to travel to schools, sharing stories and insights that foster understanding and inclusivity for those who are specially abled.
The culmination of this journey is my latest endeavor, a chapter book titled “Burgers, Coffee, and a Smile: Kelly’s Story.” It encapsulates Kelly’s life and the profound impact he had on those around him. As a testament to the enduring nature of his story, we are also in the process of developing a cartoon series titled “Kelly and Friends.”
Through my work, I aim to weave a narrative that not only entertains but also educates and promotes empathy. Each book and every school visit is a step toward a more inclusive world, where differences are celebrated, and understanding is cultivated.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Reflecting on my journey, three pillars stand out, shaping the person I’ve become and the achievements I’ve unlocked.
Firstly, my unwavering faith has been the bedrock of my endeavors. In moments of self-doubt and perceived inadequacy, it was my trust in God and the affirmation of who I am in His eyes that propelled me forward. Faith wasn’t just a belief system; it was a source of strength, guiding me through challenges and uncertainties.
Secondly, the support of friends and family has been the wind beneath my wings. (Ha! I had to say that!) From the early days of Kelly and Kelso, friends like Alisha Hill and Parker Fuessel stood by my side, tirelessly contributing to the journey. Whether it was packaging orders or setting up events, their dedication was a testament to the power of shared dreams. My parents, with their unwavering belief in my gifts and talents, played a pivotal role in fostering and nurturing my potential. Jason Gosser, Stephanie Chandler, Susan Turner – friends who edited my books and made me sound smart – their contributions were more than editorial; they were acts of belief in my voice.
Thirdly, but certainly not last, my relationship with my Uncle Kelly has left an indelible mark on my soul. His teachings transcended the conventional, imparting lessons of patience and unveiling the inherent beauty in every person. Having someone with Down syndrome in my life didn’t just broaden my perspective; it taught me to see beyond appearances and appreciate the unique beauty each individual brings to the world. Uncle Kelly was more than family; he was a profound teacher, shaping my character in ways I can never fully express.
As I look back, these qualities of faith, the unwavering support of loved ones, and the profound lessons from Uncle Kelly form the tapestry of my journey – a journey not just marked by accomplishments but by the depth of relationships, the strength of conviction, and the beauty found in the uniqueness of every soul.
To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?
The profound impact my parents had on me extends far beyond the conventional realms of parental duties. Their unwavering commitment to compassion became a beacon in our household. Not merely satisfied with the responsibilities of raising their own children, my parents extended their warmth and generosity to countless others in need. Our home became a haven for those requiring shelter, clothing, and, most importantly, love.
My mother, a tireless working mom, exemplified resilience by dedicating long hours to her profession and then seamlessly transitioning into the role of an extraordinary mom at home. Her ability to balance a demanding career with boundless maternal love left an indelible mark on my understanding of strength and sacrifice. Meanwhile, my father’s consistency was a rare gem. What the world saw in him mirrored the genuine person he was behind closed doors.
Beyond the conventional, my parents taught me a profound lesson in caring for those who may not be easy to love. Their willingness to embrace individuals with open hearts conveyed the belief that those who seem difficult may, in fact, be the ones most in need of love and understanding.
The saga of their care extended to Kelly, a testament to their enduring love. In nurturing him, they inadvertently prepared my heart for the responsibility of caring for him in his later years. Their actions resonated with a powerful message: love is not confined to the easy moments, but rather, it shines brightest when extended to those who need it the most. Through their actions, my parents bestowed upon me a legacy of empathy, selflessness, and enduring love that continues to shape my character.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.KellyAndKelso.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellyandkelso?igshid=NzZlODBkYWE4Ng==
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/kellyandKelso?wtsid=rdr_0M5nf7MPhndCvH7cU
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-burk-4ab945234?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
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