Milestone ~ Morning and Evening ~ Evening

Greetings Dear Reader,

I lived the day as if it were the kind of day I long for my routine life to echo.  I arose at my normal time, even though some friends thought I would sleep in today.  I did my Bible reading, prepared first breakfast, wrote my BLOG and went out for my prayer time. 

This is the usual start to my Monday through Friday.  Today, however, after that I lived what I long for daily.  I spent the morning writing, editing, and marketing.  I spent the afternoon visiting friends, talking of ways to love the Father more deeply, and being kind to people who needed it.  Dinner was a quiet time with family and kind words spoken to me.  My family offered blessings for my coming year that were beautiful and encouraging.

Other blessings throughout the day included getting to speak with my younger Son.  A friend making time to come pray with me at Morning prayer, another friend arising early to wish me a happy birthday.  All told it was a peaceful and fulfilling birthday.  My friend with whom I share this day and I have compared notes as we fielded the birthday wishes offered personally and on social media.

I long for the day when my income only comes from my writing and I am free to be where I wish, caring for the needs of those who I can; following the Wind where he wishes me to be.  Perhaps the many things in the pipe will make it so.

As I close this day with pipe and bowl, I wish to thank you for your kindness and love along the way.  The journey is rich and beautiful whether the day is bright and fair or cold and raining like today.   Your presence, the one we follow, and the journey itself make it so Dear Reader.  

Tomorrow, we will take up the thoughts and questions that lead us home.  We will return to the path having marked this milestone.  We shall begin by taking a look at something that will help us become lovingly unoffendable.  I warn you that in the midst of all this beauty and grace we share, this effort becomes challenging and dangerous.

I will light my Cavendish and sip my Writer’s Tears whilst I ponder the evening and you Dear Reader.  Sitting by the fire, I will dream of the things that we can find as we journey.  I am thankful for you.  I treasure our time together.  I love you.

I Sit Beside the Fire and Think – J.R.R. Tolkien – Performed by CamillasChoice

I sit beside the fire and think of all that I have seen,

Of meadow-flowers and butterflies in summers that have been

Of yellow leaves and gossamer in autumns that there were,

With morning mist and silver sun and wind upon my hair

I sit beside the fire and think of how the world will be

When winter comes without a spring that I shall ever see

For still there are so many things that I have never seen,

In every wood in every spring, there is a different green

I sit beside the fire and think of people long ago,

Of people who will see a world that I shall never know

But all the while I sit and think of times there were before

I listen for returning feet and voices at the door

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a homeowner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Contacts for Aramis Thorn:

#aramisthorn

Support Page on Patreon: www.patreon.com/aramisthorn

Novels: From My Publisher or on Amazon          

Web Page:  www.aramisthorn.com

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This BLOG:  http://aramisthorn.blogspot.com/ 

Milestone ~ Morning and Evening ~ Morning

Greetings Dear Reader,

My pastor in Madison and I share a birthday.  He has announced his retirement next year.  I also share a birthday with my closest friend, he is eight years my senior.  He turns sixty today.

My friend and I were discussing the many changes we have seen in the last year.  We speak almost daily of the many good things we have in life.  We talk about the adventures yet to come.  Our conversations are almost always hopeful and positive.

He was telling me that he used to be very demanding about his birthday and it was a cause of stress for his family.  Then, he said this to me about ten years ago.  “What if we adopted the attitude that we will see who celebrates us, even in the smallest way, and be thankful for that?”

It has been quite the experiment.  There are still wants and desires associated with this annual mark.  I have learned though that part of faith and following is giving those up and finding gratitude in what is instead of hurt in what is not.  When the day rolls around, I long to live it well.  I long to show gratitude for the last year by living the next one better.  Your company is always welcome when I celebrate, Dear Reader.  I am very thankful for you.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a homeowner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Contacts for Aramis Thorn:

#aramisthorn

Support Page on Patreon: www.patreon.com/aramisthorn

Novels: From My Publisher or on Amazon          

Web Page:  www.aramisthorn.com

Bookings: aramisthorn@aramisthorn.com

Facebook       Twitter        

Medium         Instagram 

This BLOG:  http://aramisthorn.blogspot.com/ 

A Celebratory Interlude

Greetings Dear Reader,

Today is the day of celebration.  I cannot begin to describe my love for my daughter Christmas.  That the Creator chose to bless the earth with her during our time is impossible to quantify.  The world is a much better place for her place in it.  Her compassion, care for others, and ability to relate to the needs of others acre standout.

I have seen her ease the discomfort of total strangers with just a few kind words are a silent unseen gesture.  I have watched for that frighten children at ease.  She has a great capacity to walk through formality to build bridges to other people.  Those who suffer from hurt and loss always benefit from her presence and your comfort.

As the world spins round to her birthday we cannot celebrate to the length and depth that we wish.  That does not, however, limit the joy and beauty that we find in Christmas.  It is my greatest wish that everyone who knows her will take a moment today and reach out to wish her many happy returns of the day.

I would love to see heard a flooded with well wishes, remembrances of her amazing personality, and reminders of the amazing human being that she is.  This is much more precious than any material gift that could be given.  Her life touches so many others in so many good ways.  If you please Dear Reader who do take a moment to comment here and wish my Daughter and happy birthday.

Happy birthday Christmas.  You are loved far beyond your understanding and far beyond any human ability to make and understood.  You

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Contacts for Aramis Thorn:

This BLOG:  http://aramisthorn.blogspot.com/ 

Facebook      Google +   

Twitter            Medium    

Kids BLOG

Novels on Amazon             

Bookings at aramisthorn@aramisthorn.com

Second Thoughts – A Future and Once Captain

Greetings Dear Reader,

Sometimes I will end the day with thoughts that are important to get out.  Usually I just write them and put them in my journal folder.  I have chosen that on occasion I will share them with you Dear Reader.

So many years ago I found the father I was missing.  He was still absent but for good reason.  He reminded me in so many ways of the persona that was my actual father but with more integrity and a better profession. 

I am speaking of Captain James T. Kirk.   Today is (will be) his birthday.  When I was boy his adventures on the small screen taught me some things I sorely needed.  I learned that everyone mattered.  I learned about friends and loyalty.  I learned that you follow the rules until following the rules becomes wrong.

Please understand how precious this has been in my life Dear Reader.  I do not think I would have survived the end of my first decade without Star Trek.  It gave me hope when hope was thin.  I still watch those old shows and remember good things.  I also remember the times I have spent with friends, students, and family reliving those adventures.

The debt I owe to Gene Roddenberry cannot be repaid.  The deeper debt is to others for the benefit of knowing his work.  I raise a glass tonight to William Shatner and James T. Kirk.  They have all helped me to boldly go where I might not have gone.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – Closing Thoughts

Greetings Dear Reader,

As I use my last day of vacation to rest I think about what this trip has done for me.  I have driven and walked very far.  I have been witness to someone being celebrated for her life and freedom. 

The land of Mickey Mouse has much to teach us about hope and dreams.  It also has much to teach us about what we can do if we set our minds on being good to others.  If humans can work together for a paycheck to ensure that others are happy then what can we do as Christ followers?

It is possible for dreams to come true.  It is possible for us to change the lives of others.  It is possible to make a difference. As one who follows Christ I must assure that my actions produce joy in the lives of others.  It is my obligation to make the impossible possible.  It is my duty to see to it that the dreams of others get a foothold in Christ.

People go where they get their needs met.  They flock to the Magic Kingdom to be briefly happy.  We need to create a space where people can find lasting joy.   We need to be an example.  I need to carry the lessons of joy and whatever it takes to created it with me every day.  The journey is both too long and too short to avoid it.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – All Good Things

Greetings Dear Reader,

As I write this I am still recovering from the journey back and velocitation.  I still feel like I am hurtling down the highway when I am sitting still.  This too shall pass.  As with all good things vacations end.

I have a day to recover.  I think I have celebrated my Daughter well.  My brain and fingers are weary.  I cannot even type one sentence without an error.  I will rest and draw some conclusions tomorrow.  Good night Dear Reader.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – Land Down Under

Greetings Dear Reader,

I know that Christmas misses several aspects of Australia.   As the last stop on our trip we stopped at a small zoo called Kentucky Down Under.   It is a collection of Australian animals and some cultural knowledge created by Bill and Judy Austin in 1990.  

It is worth a day to pet the kangaroos, see the animal show, and learn about sheep and sheep dogs at the sheep barn.  It is also fun to watch the staff react to an authentic Australian visiting their park.

The place has not changed much since I last visited it in 2009.   Today I watch my Daughter pet the kangaroos and even coax a young joey out of the pouch so some other visitors could see it.  I was reminded that there are so many lovely facets to her personality that sparkle when she is given the light and time to do so.

I was also reminded of how much I enjoy the diversity of culture.  We are in a rural southern town.  We are in an ancient motel run by a zealously polite Indian couple.  We spent the day infused with Australian culture.  I am supposed to be a man who embraces infinite diversity in infinite combinations. 

It is in these moments that I value just how easy that diversity is if I set aside my expectations.  I need to see and revel in the differences.  I need to see the beauty and grace in every culture.   It is in these things that the Father reveals the depth of who he is.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – Beautiful

Greetings Dear Reader,

As we leave Disney today we head north to Toccoa, GA.  The word Toccoa means Beautiful.   The place is beautiful.  It puts me in mind of when I took my Sons to Disney many years ago.  We spent three days then at the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom.

On the way back home we stopped at a place called Ichetucknee Springs.  It is a spring fed river where one can snorkel and see beautiful fresh water wild life.  My Sons commented on how much better it was than all of Disney.

Remembering that day puts me in mind as I travel away from the illusions of Disney that it is the real things in life that can give us wonder.  It is the natural world that reveals to us the magnificence of creation.  I do not want to take anything away from what has been done here.  I do with to assure that I see the wonder in all good things.

I will write more about yesterday later.  There is a final Disney moment that should be shared and I must say farewell to someone.   As I travel today, however, I will be thanking the Father for the many blessings he poured out on us at Disney World.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – Hollywood Smiles

Greetings Dear Reader,

The day spent and Disney Hollywood Studios was amazing.  My Daughter was chosen as one of the extras for the Indiana Jones production.  Because much of the park is under reimagining for the new Star Wars area we made it a shorter day.  We came back to the resort and truly rested.

Christmas was once again surprised by the Disney staff with a surprise that is yet pending.  I am constantly amazed at their creativity in meeting the needs of guests.  They work together, network across the parks, and act to go above and beyond for people.

In the vast illusion that makes up the Disney parks there is no illusion when it comes to being good to their visitors.  Once again I am astounded at what can be accomplished if people work together for a common goal.

Those of us who follow Christ could do the same to meet the real needs of the world if we chose to do so.  We could network, go above and beyond, and work to provide for the needs of others.  The people we meet along the way need this.  They need to feel that the real Kingdom of God has something to offer than illusion and promises.  They need to see it in reality.

I saw real people, with real tears of joy at the opportunity they were given to help my Daughter live the magic.   When was the last time we felt that emotional over the opportunity to feed the hungry or help those in need?  I need to get to that place.  That needs to be my desire.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – Advent Anniversaries

Greetings Dear Reader,

Yesterday truly was magical.  The Disney people lived up to their reputation for excellence.  At every turn my Daughter was treated like a princess including Disney providing all that was needed for a true makeover for our dinner at Cinderella’s castle. 

I saw real people with real lives outside of their jobs find great joy in drawing smiles and awe from a twenty-eight year old who for the day was just an eight year old.  The world spun a little slower and grew a little smaller.  This is expensive but worth every penny.

Always having an eye for managing the project I saw many things that impressed me.  The way in which the park moves people is so efficient.  The other aspect is how they manage feeding and hydrating everyone so well, with quality, at a fair price.  The entire movement of thousands of guests amazes the organizer in me.

I did not encounter one cast member who was not kind and friendly.  It once again put me in mind of just how much of a difference just being nice can make.  I was also put in mind of the impact having the power to do good and then doing it can help.  Two Disney staff members took my Daughter Christmas in hand and saw to it that she was made to feel like royalty.  They did not have to do this.  I did not pay for it.  They saw her, responded with compassion, and did great good.

What humans did in the name of a mouse I am supposed to do in the name of Christ.  What the church is supposed to be is echoed by the Disney people.  I am more determined to assure that am this whenever I can be.  If I do well then I will be able to create a kind of magic in the lives of others. 

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – Magic Kingdoms

Greetings Dear Reader,

Today we venture into the Magic Kingdom.  When we checked in last night Teresa made my Daughter feel as if she were the only person to arrive at this place where thousands arrive daily.  Today is Christmas’ birthday. 

This kingdom raised out of central Florida swamp land really is magical in a sense.  It is easy to forget that those who serve us here are real people with real lives outside of work.  In the moment when Teresa and my Daughter exchange conversation it was obvious that two real people were exchanging compassion for each other.   

As I move through this magic kingdom I will remember that the illusions here must not hinder my view of the real souls behind the smiles who deserve my kindness and grace.  They deserve to be appreciated, loved, and thanked. 

The Magic Kingdom is a place like any other that needs see the truth and love of the hidden Kingdom of Christ.  The Gospel is the herald of its imminent emergence.  I am to be its ambassador.  It is my obligation to represent the Gospel in every encounter but especially when others are working hard to serve me.

My focus will be on my Daughter today.  My heart will be to celebrate her freedom and healing from trauma and abuse.  I will mostly be celebrating her life.  I will also honor her by being good and kind to those we encounter.  I will do my best to honor Christ here as an example and as a gift.  The emerging Kingdom of God is much more vital than any Magic Kingdom derived for illusions.

The Kingdom – Michael Card

So near and yet still so far, far away

So close, and yet still to come

Concealed, the seed is mysteriously growing

In hearts that will listen and hear

A treasure that's hidden, a pearl of great price

A fortune for fools who believe

A kingdom of beauty, a kingdom of love

A kingdom of justice and peace

A kingdom that holds all the wiles of creation

A kingdom where children will lead

For now this kingdom's a land of the lowly

A place for the tired, plundered poor

image: http://static.urx.io/units/web/urx-unit-loader.gif

Now our gentle King comes in peace on a donkey

But then on a charger for war

A battle in heaven, a war on the earth

To shatter the long darkened siege

A kingdom of beauty, a kingdom of love

A kingdom of justice and peace

A kingdom that holds all the wiles of creation

A kingdom where children will lead

Not by our own strength

And not by the power of might

But by His Spirit it comes

Blinded eyes will see

And deafened ears will hear

The praise from the lips of the dumb

A kingdom of beauty, a kingdom of love

A kingdom of justice and peace

A kingdom that holds all the wiles of creation

A kingdom where children will lead

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – Varsity Blues

Greetings Dear Reader,

Yesterday we stopped at the original Varsity Restaurant for lunch, This world class drive in had be best chili dogs I have ever had.  Pairing then with amazing onion rings is a wise and glorious thing.   Washing it down a frosted orange is divine. 

Today we arrive at the resort.  The journey is reminding me why I no longer live in the South.  The heat and humidity are both assaulting me relentlessly.  My head is tired and words do not easily form today.     

It is the anticipation that keeps me moving.   Is occurs to me that the true nature of our motivation in life is the anticipation of things.  It is in the wanting that we find movement.  I think that this cuts both ways.  We can anticipate good things and this drives us.  We can anticipate things that are not so good and this hinders us.  Once again we are sculpted by that which we treasure. 

 

I must, therefore, align my desires with those of the Father.   If I do this he will help me desire the rights things.  I must focus on following even in the leisurely parts of the journey.    

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – The Road

Greetings Dear Reader,

At this point the road slips beneath us at speeds my Great-Grandfather thought dangerous to humans.  I love long drives especially when they take me to knew and unknown roads. 

This journey is mostly familiar and I have driven it dozens of times over the last twenty years.  There are moments and landmarks that mean much to me.  The hamlet of Paw-Paw with it windfarm and train museum is a byword in our family.  We have broken down twice there. 

The Effingham Cross is always a moment of prayer and reverence for me.  That such a great symbol of death inspires so deeply is a beautiful analogy of redemption to me.  It is also the gateway moment to Metropolis and the Superman Museum. 

My destination today is Macon.  I have not been to Macon in some time though it figures greatly in the first part of my dystopian novel currently under construction.  I first road in an old Thunderbird on my way to Macon as a boy.  The car had a slide over steering wheel and a thermometer speedometer. 

Driving always brings out so many memories.  Christmas is sleeping as is her passion when traveling.  The combination of the road and her snoring gives me so much time to muse and reflect.  I try to get the most out of the journeying part of the journey.  It is rarely the destination for me.

Both freedom and loneliness are constant companions for me when I drive long distances.  I pray and worship the God I love as I drive.  I ponder the lives of those I pass and who pass me.  I wonder where they are on the path back to God.  Everything about this journey is about the fellow travelers and our Guide. 

As I near each milestone I hope that I impart love and grace to the single serving friendships I encounter at gas stations and diners.  I hope that I am kind to those who seek hope and landmarks that guide them home.

I realize that there is no destination here that is more attractive to me than my final destination.  I long for that Undiscovered Country where the clearing at the end of the path yields welcome and true home.  For now, I must find what joy I can in the journey. 

Our real adventure begins tomorrow.  For today I will look at the sunrise, enjoy the road, and stop at a Cracker Barrel for breakfast.  As I meddle in the affairs of wizards and fairies I will take care not to get burned.  The road goes ever on and on Dear Reader.  Journey well today as I hope to do.  Spare a prayer for me if you are so inclined.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Of Mice and Men – Opening Thoughts

Greetings Dear Reader,

Today begins an adventure that is much more a journey of love and grace than anything else.  My Daughter Christmas has journeyed so far to become the amazing young woman she is.   I have been privileged to be her “father” for barely a third of her life.  Before my part began things were not so  good for her.  That, however, is a tale best told in the safety of a book.

One of the things that sustained her during the dark times was the hope of one day going to Disney world.  We will set out on that journey today.  Amusement parks do not in general amuse me.  I have been to the Magic Kingdom a few times and found it interesting but not as magical as others find it.

What I anticipate on this voyage is the emergence of lost little girl in my Daughter.  I am doing all that I can to make it truly magical for her.  I will chronicle the observations and ponderings I encounter along the way.  Mostly I hope to be in the moment with someone who deserves some magical moments.

Travel with me Dear Reader.  I could use your companionship, questions, and prayers.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Anniversaries Acknowledged

Greetings Dear Reader,

Thirty one years ago today my life changed forever.  I had just arrived at work when I received a call that my firstborn was ready to be born.  I drove from South Atlanta to North Atlanta so quickly that there was surprise when I arrived at the hospital. 

I will not likely get to see my Son today but I dedicate this time and space to him.  I love him deeply and fiercely.  I have watched him navigate pain and loss with honor and commitment.  He is a good father and loyal friend.  He vocation is one that directly helps those in need.

On his advent anniversary I feel so privileged to be his father.  I benefit from his presence in my life and realize what a blessing he is.  It is in this man, this friend; I see the potential of his generation.  His mind and heart have so much promise.  He is the kind of man we should all aspire to be.

I love you Son.  Happy Birthday.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Celebrating a Favorite Fool

Greetings Dear Reader,

Today is my Brother Ian’s birthday.  I thought that as part of it I would share the chapter from Sheet Rock on the Road about him.  I wish that everyone could meet him and know him.  He is one of the great blessings in my life.   Enjoy and buy the book if you like the chapter.

K-Mart at Christmas

Sometimes you get to share your most precious things with those most precious to you.  At age twenty two, many things are wrong in my life.  I have finished most of a college degree and messed up both my schooling and my relationship with a lovely girl.  I have lost sight of my future and my footing to find it.

Truly the only thing that is solid in me is my faith.  I believe even when I am hurting and hopeless.  I believe even when it is foolish to do so.  I am back at home with my parents and my foolishness has left me alone in many ways.  I leave that situation determined to set out on my own and fix things.  Had I stayed things would have fixed themselves.

Two years later things are almost as bad.  This time, however, I have a wife, a two year-old, and an infant.  My faith is strong and I am searching for a way to mend other things in my life.  I love my family and we are living with my parents for a season before making the transition to a school that will help me complete my undergraduate education.

So many things are out of sorts and none of the old ghosts that involve my parents have faded.  It is Christmas Eve and my young brother is concerned because he has not gotten a present for our mother.  I volunteer to take him shopping.  We drive to K-Mart where he picks out some heavy and horrid sweaters for our mother.  He is determined that they are just what she wants.  I am sure she will lie and tell him she loves them.  I am also sure they will disappear some time in January. 

After completing our shopping we join the line of weary Christmas Eve shoppers.  The store is about to close and it is unusually cold for Georgia in December.  We pay and make our way to the old car I am driving.  It needs to warm up a bit before it will willingly make the journey back to my parents’ home.  Whilst sitting in the K-Mart parking lot he asks me about school and where I am headed.  I explain that I am studying to teach the Bible and train future pastors. 

He pauses for a moment and then asks the deep question.  He asks what I believe.  I quietly and gently explain that I believe some very simple things.  I believe that we all are heading toward God in some way.  I believe that we have created our own barriers in that journey.  Jesus died to remove those barriers and only faith in that creates the necessary relationship to assure that our journey is headed in the proper direction.

I had no idea in that moment what I was beginning.  Over the years my little brother has become a Christ Follower who I love and trust.  His humble obedient spirit is an example I treasure when I am weak.  That Christmas was lovely in many ways but the best moment was in my old car waiting for my brother to open the door that opens only to a voluntary touch.  My faith comes so easy but it is at its richest when others partake of it.  Sometimes when you are driving your brother drinks it all in and both of your lives are different forever.

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

(͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Second Thoughts – Christmas Every Day

Greetings Dear Reader,

Sometimes I will end the day with thoughts that are important to get out.  Usually I just write them and put them in my journal folder.  I have chosen that on occasion I will share them with you Dear Reader.

Whilst I have celebrated the wedding of friends today there is a single dark pixel in the screen of this bright day.  My Daughter Christmas is still hundreds of miles away.  She is on her way back but this is the first time since she came to live with us that I have not been with her on her birthday.

I am only able celebrate her in words today, so I will.  She is an amazing person.  She is strong and intelligent.  She has a heart for those in need.  Her love of children is holy and fierce.  Her love of the beauty in the world is unparalleled. 

She has whit and cheek in spades.  She works hard and reasons out better ways to do things constantly.  Christmas has a WICKED love of musical theatre.  She may know every line to every Disney movie.  Her mind is sharper than she believes.  The world is a much better place because she is in it.

I know that every day she has lived in my home I have felt something of the magic of Christmas in my life.  Her determination to have a better life shows the hope that Christmas portents.  Every time she smiles from the heart it is like opening a gift.  Each step toward Christ that she takes in her journey mirrors the beauty and grace found in redemption.  Her presence has surly provided Christmas in my home every day. 

Happy Birthday Christmas; you are loved and valued.

Butterfly Kisses – Bob Carlisle

There's two things I know for sure:

She was sent here from heaven and she's daddy's little girl.

As I drop to my knees by her bed at night

She talks to Jesus and I close my eyes

and I thank god for all of the joy in my life

Oh, but most of all

For butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer;

sticking little white flowers all up in her hair;

"Walk beside the pony, Daddy, it's my first ride."

"I know the cake looks funny, Daddy, but I sure tried."

Oh, with all that I've done wrong, I must have done something right

To deserve a hug every morning And butterfly kisses at night.

Sweet 16 today

She's looking like her mama a little more everyday

One part woman, the other part girl.

To perfume and make-up from ribbons and curls

Trying her wings out in a great big world.

But I remember.....

Butterfly kisses after bedtime prayer;

sticking little white flowers all up in her hair.

"You know how much I love you, Daddy,

But if you don't mind I'm only gonna kiss you on the cheek this time."

Oh with all that I've done wrong I must have done something right

to deserve her love every morning and butterfly kisses at night.

All the precious time

Like the wind, the years go by.

Precious butterfly.

Spread your wings and fly.

She'll change her name today.

She'll make a promise and I'll give her away.

Standing in the bride-room just staring at her.

She asked me what I'm thinking and I said

"I'm not sure-I just feel like I'm losing my baby girl."

She leaned over

Gave me butterfly kisses with her mama there,

Sticking little white flowers all up in her hair

"Walk me down the aisle, Daddy-it's just about time."

"Does my wedding gown look pretty, Daddy? Daddy, don't cry"

Oh, with all that I've done wrong I must have done something right.

To deserve her love every morning and butterfly kisses

I couldn't ask God for more, man this is what love is.

I know I gotta let her go, but I'll always remember

Every hug in the morning and butterfly kisses...

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

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Second Thoughts – Maxim the Man

Greetings Dear Reader,

Sometimes I will end the day with thoughts that are important to get out.  Usually I just write them and put them in my journal folder.  I have chosen that on occasion I will share them with you Dear Reader.

This second thought is in no way an afterthought.  My oldest Son, Maxim turns thirty today.  I love this man with an intensity I can rarely adequately express.  I was privileged to spend the entire day with him yesterday and most of the day with him on Friday.  He is noble and honest.  He loves his family without reservation.

His thirtieth year has been painful beyond words.  For the most part he has weathered it well but it has taken its toll.  I have been privileged to help and support him.  When his troubles started he took me aside and told me how glad he was that we have worked out our differences.  I am too.

What I want to do in this space is honor him.  He has a spirit that can love deeply.  He has a heart that demands justice and kindness to those in need.  His compassion is unparalleled.  He is a dear friend and competent counselor.  He is a beloved Son.

Today we will spend time together resting and being friends.  I may love other men equally like I do his brother.  I will never love anyone more.  I cannot heal his hurts.  I cannot fix the problems he must weather.  I can stand with him.  I can be patient and understanding.  I can support and uphold.  I can carry him if necessary.  From the moment I first held him to my last breath I will love him.  Through all of eternity he will hold the place only one other being can hold.  He will always be my beloved Son.

Happy Birthday Maxim Dawntreader.

Sunrise of Your Smile – Michael Card

Reject the worldly lie that says

That life lies always up ahead

Let power go before control becomes

A crust around your soul

Escape the hunger to possess

And soul-diminishing success

This world is full of narrow lives

I pray by grace your smile survives

For I would wander weary miles

Would welcome ridicule, my child

To simply see the sunrise of your smile

To see the light behind your eyes

The happy thought that makes you fly

Yes, I would wander weary miles

To simply see the sunrise of your smile

Now close your eyes so you can see

Your own unfinished memories

Now open them for time is brief

And you'll be blest beyond belief

Now glance above you at the sky

There's beauty there to blind the eye

I ask all this then wait awhile

To see the dawning of your smile

For I would wander weary miles

Would welcome ridicule, my child

To simply see the sunrise of your smile

To see the light behind your eyes

The happy thought that makes you fly

Yes, I would wander weary miles

To simply see the sunrise of your smile

Wishing you joy in the journey,

Aramis Thorn

Mat 13:52 So Jesus said to them, "That is why every writer who has become a disciple of Christ’s rule of the universe is like a home owner. He liberally hands out new and old things from his great treasure store.”

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