Contradiction

Deacon Thom's advice was language your destination so that you read it and say; Yes, that's me and that's where I'm going. Good mentors don't make decisions for you but help you ask the right questions. Thom was a voracious writer and chronicler through his daily email, "Jesus Speaking". His advice was usually few words but broad understanding.  He would tell us that you can ask your friends for advice on your decisions but you know you the best. If it's not clear, you need to keep digging.

I still have questions I would love to ask him but he lost his battle to brain cancer in 2021. His personal story is one of giving and led him to become a deacon in the Catholic church in his late 50's. I learned of his cancer from his video series he started during the pandemic. One day he had no hair.  I hadn't been watching on a regular basis but called as soon as I finished watching the video. I left a message. Within 20 minutes I got a call back.  He had been on his way to the emergency room, in an ambulance, due to complications with his treatment. He was still in the hospital when he called. I was moved and grateful to hear first hand about his battle and offer my prayers and support. Thom was such a gift and giver to everyone that knew him. Even as he was going through his treatment he never lost hope and gave one of his last presentations a month before he passed.  I still have a link to the recorded video and Thom taking off his crazy wig to start his presentation to those gathered and to share his reason for hope.

Reading, watching, and listening keeps you on the path but relationships bring the most joy.  Thom is one of many in my life that have inspired me and keep me in the fight. Regrets don't bring value but do provide pauses for reflection and action. Guard your joy and have courage to confront your fears. If you're not a praying type you should look into it and pray for those you've met and those yet to meet. When my mom Sandy passed I kept the recording of her voicemail message. It ended with, "I hope you find joy in your day."

I created this tribute video for my mom.  She passed during the pandemic and didn't have the chance for a proper goodbye. The music use is from an album I created with my dad of some of his, my mom, and my grandma's favorite songs. One of the tracks is from the 45 I mentioned in Metanoia, "Blackboard of My Heart".