Dr. Warren Wiersbe, an ode to a life extraordinary.

Dr. Warren Wiersbe and his lovely wife, Betty.

It's amazing how long it takes for thoughts to finally gel together when we lose an extraordinary person. I've finally been able to coalesce my meanderings, and hope this is well received. Here goes...

I first met Dr. Warren Wiersbe when I was about 12, during the time I helped my parents with janitorial work. I'd heard of him and knew he was a writer, which I passionately wanted to be, so I found his desk and left him notes from, "Janitor Mark." Amazingly, he kept all those notes and filed them for safe keeping. Well, he was enchanted by my youthful exuberance and met me in person, and thus began a lifelong friendship and mentor-ship. We spent many hours talking, learning, and joking. His humor always managed to dig under my shyness and tear it loose. He was a wonderful man, and I loved him dearly.

He heartily encouraged my writing, and critiqued everything I wrote--including my first two books. The amazing thing was, though he disliked fiction, he always found time to read whatever I created. His wisdom helped me in far more than writing. He mentored me spiritually, and I will forever be grateful for his guiding light. I owe him a great debt.

My favorite memories are when he would take me to the steak house and we would have lunch together. At the time I wasn't aware of just how special those times were, but I was a kid and was at least wise enough to make those times count. When I turned 16, and got my driver's license, he gave me a congratulation card with $25 inside for my first ticket! What a jokester. The privilege of such attention was lost on me at the time, but now I can only look back with wonder.

When my son was born, we named him Peter Warren, in honor of Dr. Wiersbe. My whole family met both him and his wife many times. We didn't take enough pictures, but I'm glad for the ones we have, and he gamely posed for them. It's impossible to express just how big of an impact he made on me and my family. What an extraordinary man.

If there is one lesson that Dr. Wiersbe taught me above any others, it was quiet humility. He always gave credit to God first, and only accepted praise second-hand as the tool of the Creator. I saw how he treated fame, the way he practically ran the other way when confronted by it. He enjoyed anonymity whenever he could, but didn't complain when I'd introduce someone to him. What a fantastic example he was!

I hope that I've passed on his lessons to my own children. I hope his influence has made me a better man. I hope his memory never fades. I wish I could talk to him more, and ask his opinion on things, but that time is sadly gone. I will never forget him, or his special ministry to me.

Thank you, Dr. Wiersbe, and thank you, Mrs. Wiersbe for always being gracious and loving even when we interrupted dinnertime. We miss you both.

- M

The Karate Kid 2, a movie about much more than fighting.

One of my very favorite movies is "The Karate Kid 2." It follows the adventures of Daniel and Mr. Miyagi. Unlike many sequels, you don't need to have seen the first. Actually, it may be better to see the movies in reverse order, because "The Karate Kid 2" is the story of Mr. Miyagi. The history of this martial arts teacher is profound, deep, and resonates so well that I'd wish I had known more about him in the first movie. Sure, in the first he's a mysterious presence, but understanding who and what he is would have made the relationship between master and student far more complex and believable.

Generally speaking, the second movie is considered better than the first. Why is that? It's very simple, it's because the audience already understands the world and the players and the motivations. So, we hit the ground running and are able to quickly get into more substantial plots. Think of the widely believed best Star Wars movie, "The Empire Strikes Back." There is no setup of characters, no setup of what's going on, just an immediate danger and the beginning of Luke Skywalker's Jedi training. The movie starts with the story already progressing at a fast clip. That's taking full advantage of the history of the first film and efficiently adding to it.

Back to "The Karate Kid 2," the best part of the story is how seriously the events and cultures are treated. Mr. Miyagi's father dies at the start, and there is reverence throughout. Okinawan culture is shown with no hint of comedic wit, but instead with dignity and understanding. This film seems much more real than the first, with real problems and real heroics. Yes, having the Karate Kid win battles is basically the task of both movies, but in the sequel he earns the victory. You see him struggle and overcome, but not just him. You see, Mr. Miyagi grows too. There are huge character arcs for all the main people.

There's a test I have done with many books over the years. I flip to the last page and read the last few paragraphs. I'm looking to be surprised and to wonder how the characters got to that point. If I'm not surprised, then I know the characters don't change much. "The Karate Kid 2" passes with bright colors. It's not only a fun movie, but a good movie that teaches as well as entertains. There are lessons in compassion, forgiveness, loss, honor, revenge, love, patience, and never backing down. Sure, it's not literary artwork, but the movie has a lot to offer. Check it out.

- M

Happy Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day to America!

Today we celebrate our many freedoms, enjoy family and friends, eat good food, and light fireworks in celebration. Such freedom came with enormous cost and requires diligence and courage to maintain. We must never forget why our nation was founded. America was birthed from the idea of individual freedom, where personal religious beliefs aren't mandated by the state and where even the lowliest person can own their very own slice of land. Hard work is encouraged, as is participation in the political process. All citizens have a voice, and the government works for us.

This is why we celebrate. This is what we celebrate. This is what we hope for the rest of the world.

- M

Tribute to fathers

We all have fathers to thank for our lives. It's tragic that not everyone has a father around them, due to myriad circumstances. Fathers teach us so much about men and what it means to grow up. They provide the boundaries and discipline we require to mature. In the ideal, fathers are intimately connected in our lives, are always available and caring. Sure, fathers aren't perfect, nobody is, but their influence on our lives is enormous and lasting.

I think back on my childhood and my father is always a big part. He's my personal hero. I hope one day to be the man he is. Whenever I'm facing a huge decision, I want to know what he thinks. His advice is worth the effort, and there is nobody I want to impress more than him. Being a father myself, I keenly feel the responsibility and pressure to be the best I can be. It's not easy, simple, or applauded for the most part, but the reward is massive.

Amusingly, I promised myself that I wouldn't be the sort of dad who would do long speeches about stuff ... well, my kids have made it clear I've become well known for my speeches. Ah well. My reason is simply to instruct, and sometimes it takes a bit of time to express such things. Apparently dads are like that, so who am I to break tradition now? My deepest hope is to raise children with respect, compassion, and the strength to deal with life. That's what Father's Day means to me.

Happy Father's Day!

- M

Remembering the fallen

Today is the anniversary of the Normandy invasion, the largest amphibious assault in world history. The heroes who died that day saved the world from tyranny and untold darkness. I've seen documentaries, read biographies, and listened to testimonies of that day and it never fails to make the hairs on my neck stand up. Today was filled with heroics I cannot fathom, terror I hope I never understand, hope and vision and stubbornness and pain. I thank God for their sacrifice, and I pray it is always remembered. Today, we thank our fallen heroes.

We remember Normandy

D-Day, Omaha beach

- M

Hope and sacrifice, the legacy of heroes.

In life, there are few things as inspiring as a hero. Whatever your field of interest, there are people in it who excel to such a degree that they become idols. Nothing at all wrong with it. If the field genuinely interests you, then you will search and find people to look up to and emulate. We need heroes to push us to greater effort and raise our expectations. For instance, for years the four minute mile was considered impossible, but once one person broke it the rest of the world suddenly found within itself a whole bunch of others who could do the same. That's the power of a real hero.

Military heroes have a special place in our hearts, because they genuinely place their lives on the line. That's a big reason why we have holidays celebrating them. They aren't the only heroes, of course, there are plenty more--firefighters, police officers, emergency medical services, and the list goes on. We admire anyone willing to sacrifice themselves for others, and place it as one of life's ultimate blessings. Heroism is achievable by anyone, which makes it one of the few prizes we can all strive for no matter our ability or station in life.

The legacy of all this is that we cherish and admire anyone who goes beyond ordinary courage and treads in the rarified air of hero. I bet if the nightly news was only filled with heroic stories, that we would be a much happier place. We need to be inspired, to be pushed to greater efforts, to be reminded not to simply do the minimum but go beyond. Oddly, heroes aren't necessarily role models, since acts of heroism are usually singular moments, but we love to hear the stories and are eager to learn more about the people themselves. I can't imagine life without heroes and the world would be pitiful without them.

- M

Remembering fallen heroes this Memorial Day

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

I believe we all want to have real heroes in our lives. Our military men and women are distinct heroes we call all point to. It's always sad when those we know pass between our world and the next, but it's also a source of pride to name them among the heroes of our military services. These people have spent their lives in a high calling: defending the nation they serve, to protect all the people therein even if the heroes don't even know them. There's a reality of dedication and honor that we who have never served won't comprehend. These heroes have earned our respect and remembrance. I urge you to take time today to think about them, offer up prayers for their families, and to keep them in mind as you celebrate.

Happy Memorial Day!

- M

Faith, hope, and love; family needs it all.

Groundhogs have family too
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Family is a firm center in everyone's lives. We all come from a father and mother, though we don't all share the blessings of remaining in that state. Wherever you find yourself, family is vital to health and happiness. Don't forget our siblings either, because they better understand us than anyone else. Family defines us, provides heartfelt values, and deepest love. Family gives us wings, trains us to fly, and lets us wing our way into the sky.

Whatever we do in life, there's a bit of our family inside it. To the heights of praise, or the depths of misery, our family is near to our thoughts. I pray there's more good than bad, more love than hate, and more hope than despair. Family is worth the time and effort to keep strong. Like most things, it takes care and attention to maintain a strong family relationship. While there's no magic solution to difficulties, there's plenty of resources available if you're struggling.

So, if your family is being a pain and annoyance, I hope you'll realize that family is still valuable beyond measure. Funny thing about treasure--it's value is what you believe it is, because even diamonds are only shiny stones to those who don't recognize them. With all the pain and suffering in the world, it's nice to have a family at your side. Give your parents a kiss. Hug your brothers and sisters. Show them just how important they are to you. Maybe you'll laugh, maybe you'll cry, and just maybe you'll experience the wonders of family all over again.

- M

Tribute to children

My precious, lovely, darling children

Children are the future of humanity, the pride of their parents, and the joy of old age. It's impossible to count their value, their potential, and their ability. They are life's great gift, a chance to pass on our values and traditions, and hopefully build a better world. Parent's naturally put their hopes into their children, wanting the best for them, and do sometimes push too hard. It's hard to know when you've done enough as a parent, because doubts always arise.

Despite our flaws as parents, children have inherited the world and done pretty well with it. I find it incredible how often we hear of desperate poverty spawning a splendid genius, or depravity turned into greatness. It's awe-inspiring to see the flexibility of children, their desire to learn, and their incredible motivation to keep moving. One thing about children (particularly the very young), they are always on the move. Trying to stifle such momentum is like putting a stop to the tides, or asking the rain not to fall.

Children should have the deepest love and nurture possible, but many times don't. That's tragic and heart-breaking. I wish I could snap my fingers and change it, but the world is a cruel place. Yet, I find myself walking through a store aisle and hear, "Hey, mister, why are you so tall?" I turn to find a beaming face turned upward, gawking at my size with utmost wonder. How could anyone not smile and laugh? Yes, children are a treasure with no equal.

- M

Post-Valentine blues

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Valentine's Day in modern times is essentially a day of expressed love. Yes, there was a Saint Valentine who is typically tied to the holiday. It's a day of candy, love letters, cards given to classmates, and proclamations of attraction. I've always been more interested in the day afterward, though. What happens to all those cards and declarations?

When I was in school, I think I received perhaps two or three Valentine's cards. I couldn't understand what I was doing wrong. There were plenty around me who got dozens, if not millions, of cards without any effort at all. The attraction and romance concepts were a complete mystery to me. For an unknown reason, girls went to some boys and practically slobbered all over them. The more incredible part was how frequently the object of attention didn't care at all. Observing these interactions gave me tremendous insights into how clueless the entire process is. I doubt anyone actually understands it, and if they say they do then they're embellishing.

So, after all the activity of Valentine's Day, we're left with a candy hangover and lots of cards that we'll likely just toss into the trash. What remains are feelings of companionship, hope, and maybe a list of new friends. But, there's also the sadness of missed opportunities and loneliness. It's a cruel time really, as holidays frequently are. So, to those left out, I give you my shoulder to cry on and offer these kind words, "Love isn't a race, but an adventure that'll surprise and terrify you. Let it sneak up on you and breathe on your neck. If you have to force it, then it's probably not worth much. Most of all, start by talking and never stop communicating."

- M

The world and wonder of the writer.

I'm often asked, "Where do you get your ideas?" But, there's a far more important, yet subtle, question, "What do you hope to gain by your writing?" Sure, there's the easy answers of financial success, popularity, and renown, but every writer yearns to make a difference. Writing is simply our chosen method. I think within every writer resides such a powerful desire to affect the world, that they are willing to undertake solitude, self-flagellation, and rejection in their efforts to produce their work. Writing is, after all, a lonely profession.

I mainly write fiction, and specifically fantasy and science fiction. Can those touch the world? Well, I hope so. Stories demonstrate the values we uphold, the truths we believe, and the world we wish we might create. Fiction isn't the only place for these things, but it's what I've always focused on. To me, stories are escapist entertainment, and I want to escape to a place of heroes fighting villains, and good triumphing over evil. It's exaggerated, ridiculous, impossible, heroic, and ultimately satisfying. When I find a great story that puts goose bumps on my skin, then I dig in with both feet and hang on until the end.

So, I hope to improve my world, make people laugh and cry, provide hope and light, and to lift the spirits of anyone willing to read my work. I truly hope to gain all that, simply by writing stories of fantastical creatures, amazing heroes, terrifying villains, and goofy sidekicks. Yup. The right words, said at the right time, can change the world. Deep down, that's why writers write. Maybe, those words will resonate, and then our dreams will come true.

- M

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

In these days of joy, presents, food, and family, take time to remember the fortunes we have. No matter how small, count your blessings. Hug your loved ones. Re-form old friendships. Spend your time generously, be miserly with your criticisms, and give hope a merry place in your heart.

Pray for those suffering, grieve with the mourners, honor sweet memories of your fallen. Tears of joy and sorrow flow equally well. Pay attention to the special moments, and don't let old grudges fester. Let this be a time of celebration for the prospects of new beginnings.

Most important, remember why we celebrate: our Savior's birth.

- M

Tribute to a great man, a great father, a great father-in-law

Norm Porter

The father of my wife passed into glory last week. Gratefully, we were able to see him in the hospital a few days prior, and my wife spent the night at his side. Memories are now all we have, yet his legacy remains in our children and in the lessons and examples he provided. What makes a man great? Glorious victory, or magnificent honor, or clamoring fans, or mighty achievements? No. A man is great by his character, his heart, and his virtue. Norm possessed all three in equal abundance.

He was a quiet man, who smiled plenty and always gave a kind word. Love for his family radiated from him. His calm and reserved manner hid a deep sense of humor and powerful feelings. I'll never forget when it was the day before I married his daughter, when he took me aside and said, "Now, we haven't discussed the dowry..." I choked out some reply, and then a huge smile overtook his face and he laughed. I'll never forget it. Norm Porter was indeed a great man.

Life is a journey, a road we all take, with but one destination. In the end, we leave behind a legacy. Norm's legacy is his children, grandchildren, friends, and a powerful faith which sustained him and his wife throughout. He is a role model to be cherished, emulated, and remembered. I loved him and regarded him as a personal hero. His passing has made this world a poorer place, and enriched Heaven even more. God bless you, Norm Porter.

- M

Tribute to our Veterans.

Happy Veterans Day!

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We enjoy a wealth of freedoms in our nation, and we must always remember that those freedoms have come at a high price. Too often are our veterans forgotten, then to be trotted out during a single day of celebration during the year. Many have died, been maimed, lost families and friends, carry emotional scars, and will never fully recover. I think it's important to remember our military throughout the year, as they are the ones fighting for us, not seeking reward, and simply want our respect and acceptance.

It's good to have a specific day of remembrance. It's important. It's vital. Yet, continue to teach those who don't understand, the importance of our military. Military life is hard, and then the return to civilian life is often more difficult. Also, it's not only the soldier who has it tough, because their families are in the same position. Pray for them. Laugh with them. Cry with them. But, most of all, remember them.

- M

Treasured photos are oddly hard to keep these days.

When I was growing up, my parents studiously put together photo albums and maintained a large collection of photographs. These days, most photos are digital, which makes keeping a photo album strangely difficult. Isn't that odd? Photos are more common than ever, but if you don't have your phone with you then how do you show them off? Sure, you could print them off--though you require either going to the store or a specialized printer to do so--or you could get one of those digital photo frames (funny things, which hold many hundreds of images and can cycle through them).

My parents, circa 1981. Shouldn't this be in an album?

I love the ease of photos now, but also sigh with sadness at the loss of picture albums. Some of my favorite memories are sitting on the couch, flipping through photos, and listening to stories about each image. Families get to know each other through photos, and somehow that's being lost. Maybe now it's become an art form--such as scrapbooks--and special attention is given to them? I don't think so. We are so determined to snap thousands of images that we scarcely consider how to present them to others. It's tough to match the wonder of a picture held in your hands, with the date and location scrawled on the back for timely reference.

Funny how nostalgia bleeds throughout your life. I find myself pining for simpler days very frequently anymore. Perhaps I'm getting old ... I prefer to think I'm growing wiser ... or senile. Memory and emotion floods me when I look at old pictures. Also, physical photos don't require electricity to display, won't be deleted accidentally (unless you're very inattentive), and can be restored to their original luster with care. See? There's lots of good reasons to have a photo album! Go out and make one today.

- M

When did my parents become so wise?

My parents, wise far beyond their years.

More often I find myself seeking advice from my parents--or, when they aren't around, pondering what they might say. I want their wisdom. This leads to the other question of when did become wise? I remember most of my young adulthood as a constant flow of nonsense coming from them, and I was way smarter than anything they had to say. Now, I'm pretty sure I'm a blithering idiot compared to either of them. I need to sit and soak in what they have to tell me. They're wisdom will remain with me until the end of my life.

Children are constantly trying to strike out on their own, to make a unique mark upon the world, and stand sure in their own competence. That's the strange thing about growing up ... once you do, you find yourself yearning to go back home and listen the way you should have when you were too smart to know any better. Very weird. I'm glad I realized the situation before I ultimately lost the opportunity.

Perhaps I should write it down in a book? (One of the hundreds already out there). But, I don't know those other people, so I just don't quite value what they say as much as my own parents. Again, weird. You'd think wisdom would be wisdom regardless of who says it. However, when it comes from someone you highly respect, the words are far more valuable and important. I can't imagine greater wisdom on Earth than my parents and my lovely wife.

- M

Happy Independence Day!

Happy Independence Day!

Today, I thank all the fallen, and lift up their loved ones in prayer for enduring grace in the midst of loss. I thank the currently serving, and pray they come home safely and well. I thank those who are yet to serve, that they may have hope for a bright tomorrow. Because of you, we live in a nation founded upon the ideas of individual liberty and freedom. May God bless America!

- M

To all the fathers, we celebrate you and your efforts. It wasn't all in vain...

My hero. My dad. A bit younger, when his ears where shorter...

How often do we thank our fathers? I'll be forthright and admit I am lacking in that score. My dad is my hero. He is everything I want to be in life: honest, generous, willing to help anyone, loving, caring, and bears the wisdom of the ages as a crown upon his brow. I love my dad. I'm proud of my dad. And, dad, I want to thank you for all you've done, and all you've given up for me and my brother. You are my hero, dad, and always will be.

Fathers demonstrate what it is to be a man to their boys and girls. They show how men respond to women, and what it means to "toughen up and be a man." No, it's not grunting and being abrasive and saying nothing hurts. Fathers are role models in their children's lives, and if you are a father then you know how overwhelmingly humbling that consideration becomes to you. Fathers aren't perfect, but I have a hard time believing my father isn't pretty close to the goal.

Give your father a warm hug. Tell him how much you love him. Show him you care. Let him know and don't ever allow yourself to leave the talking until it's too late. Regret is a horrible thing, so do yourself a favor and give your father a call today!

 

Happy Father's Day!

- M

Happy Memorial Day, a tribute to real-life heroes

Today, we honor the fallen.

I hope you all have a wonderful Memorial Day! There's outdoor barbequing, family gatherings, talking, joking, and remembrance of fallen friends. This could easily be a bitter-sweet day, but for the most part we celebrate people who we knew and loved. I believe there's few things which draw us together more than bragging about heroes in our families and telling their stories. We desperately need heroes in our lives, even if they're no longer with us.

Nations should pause and remember those who made it great by paying the ultimate cost. We need a sense of perspective, see the value of sacrifice, and watch how greatly we honor those who willingly march into the jaws of death. Courage is what we remember most, but there's so much more to every story. Heroes aren't perfect, but they are still heroes. That's why we need holidays like Memorial Day. We're told who these people were, what they did, how they died, and the legacies left behind. It's not only military we honor, but firefighters and police officers and rescue teams and so many others.

Hopefully while we eat and enjoy the great outdoors, we take time today to learn about the heroes all around us. They deserve the honor and recognition we offer, they've earned it. I salute you all, and am grateful for the sacrifices you've given. May your family's grief be outshone by the thanks of your country mates, and the prayers of us all.

Happy Memorial Day!

- M

Happy Mother's Day!

To all mothers, past, present, and future. You hold the hope of life in your hands. You are to be cherished, praised, and honored. Motherhood is a fine occupation, perhaps the best of them all. I love seeing the beaming smiles of mothers watching their own children--a rapturous smile if ever there was one. With all the pains and suffering which brings about motherhood, I am amazed how it never prevents fresh mothers from eagerly anticipating what is to come. Mother's are truly special.

So, yes, we set aside a national holiday to celebrate mothers. Raise your hands high and clap with all your might. We all have mothers. I hope everyone will give their mothers a big hug and say a prayer of thanks. For those gone beyond the grave, we say a prayer of gratitude and a pledge to be better. Mothers shape our lives from the beginning and on through to the end.

Happy Mother's Day!

- M