New Roads Ahead – Part One
Life often takes unexpected turns, and it is in those moments of upheaval that we truly discover ourselves. For most of my life, I’ve kept my personal life tucked away, hidden from the world. However, recent events have compelled me to open up and share my story. It’s a story of resilience, change, and a newfound sense of purpose.
It all started when I fell seriously ill. The brush with mortality was a wake-up call, altering the way I perceive the world around me. Almost dying changes you, shifts your perspective, and leaves you feeling different. The world, which once seemed familiar and comforting, now appears as a scary place, filled with uncertainty. For the first time in my life, I found myself unable to predict where my journey would lead.
In the midst of this uncertainty, I found myself daydreaming about starting afresh in a different country. The idea of a clean slate and the freedom to pursue happiness in its purest form was tantalizing. But then, reality set in. I realized I had my reasons to stay right where I was. I had my grandchildren, my son, my daughter, and my father—all precious ties that bound me to my current life. I yearned for the freedom to chase my own happiness, yet I couldn’t bear to sever the ties that grounded me.
Summer brought its own set of challenges when my wife, Jody, walked out on me for the second time. The fear of it happening again looms over me, casting a shadow of mistrust and apprehension. It’s not just the fear of being alone that plagues my thoughts; it’s the feeling of being stranded in the darkness, devoid of direction, with no options but to endure whatever comes my way. The uncertainty of tomorrow and the following week weighs heavily on my mind. All I crave is peace.
I want to make it clear that I am not unhappy. On the contrary, I am grateful for the blessings in my life. I cherish every moment, knowing that life is fragile and unpredictable. My grandchildren bring boundless joy, my children are thriving, and my father remains a cherished presence. I have a fulfilling job, work with wonderful colleagues, and am surrounded by great friends. These factors contribute to my happiness. Moreover, in the past few weeks, I’ve experienced a deeper sense of contentment, perhaps because I’ve come to understand the presence of the divine within my heart.
A turning point came when I was speaking with my friend, Kris. We had been contemplating reviving our podcast radio station, GHTR, which had once been immensely popular. The prospect of rekindling that venture seemed daunting, and doubt clouded my mind. However, amidst the uncertainty, I heard a voice, almost like an inner guidance, telling me to let go and worry less about the future. Such moments have a profound impact on how we perceive life, shifting our perspectives and priorities.
Throughout my life, I’ve carried memories of my grandmother, Haywood, reading Bible verses to me every night before bedtime. As a young boy, I couldn’t fully grasp the meaning of those verses, and some passages even filled me with fear. I was hesitant to ask questions, fearing that it might upset my sweet grandmother, who cared deeply about my life and destiny.
Today, I believe that my grandmother is watching over me, smiling at the path I’m on. I look forward to the day when I can reunite with her in the afterlife, sitting down to discuss everything we missed. I dream of a grand family reunion when we’re all together in heaven, where I can hug my mother and grandparents tightly and express how much I’ve missed them. It may seem almost impossible, but the hope of such reunions sustains me.
In the past four weeks, a profound transformation has taken place within me. I have wholeheartedly embraced our Lord Jesus Christ and have committed to serving Him for the rest of my life. This newfound faith has become the cornerstone of my existence, providing me with the peace and purpose I have been seeking.
In conclusion, life’s journey is unpredictable, filled with twists and turns that challenge our perceptions and priorities. My recent experiences have pushed me to reevaluate what truly matters. Despite the uncertainties that surround me, I find solace in my faith and in the hope of reunions with loved ones in the afterlife. This journey of transformation has taught me that even in the face of adversity, there is always the potential for renewal, growth, and a deeper sense of purpose.
