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 – 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 ͡°)