Stop 47 - Tyler, Texas

The ants have gone marching two by two in Texas. As I return to Tyler, Texas for nonprofit training, the local wildlife has celebrated my return. Fire ants appear to be the state's guardian insect gone awry. Sitting or standing on the sandy grass for longer than a short television advertisement has resulted in my legs growing ant borne red polka dots.

Although nuclear war could eliminate the attention craving insect, a valuable lessons could be learned outside the local ranch's classroom. Although the insect sting brings pain, certain wonders of life have value that transcends pain. Even when nursing insectly nibbles, showing love to another person is far more important than my current internal feelings.

Stop 47 - Back

Stop 46 - Washington DC

While searching for parking near Capital Hill our wandering band was able to find one of the few free long term parking spots (for commoners) near the main government buildings. The small blessing allowed us to visit close friends, experience the historic sites, and pray at the Justice House of Prayer.

What small blessing have produced big effects in your life?

Stop 45 - Virginia Beach, VA

Ocean bound fun! My nomadic wanderings brought me to the East Coast bastion of natural beauty.(Chesapeake Bay) Along with the divinely inspired scenery, I was able to see three close friends from Youth With a Mission. Fellowship together illustrates my conviction that friendships have value greater than the return of any financial security. (or these days I should say insecurity)

Into what investments are you depositing your life?

Stop 44 - Peoria, IL

Human life has tremendous divinely endowed value. Although 1 year old David (see picture) lacks a college education or a high paying salary, my nephew is a valuable treasure. His simple love and joy can melt hearts and teach lessons on what is truly important.

While visiting my sister's family in Peoria, I was blessed with the profound wrapped in small simplicity. Enjoying a peaceful family awakened fresh life in my heart and lifted my eyes upward to the highest priorities.

Despite my nephew's lack of Marxian productivity, he is worthy of great love. A resulting question of utmost importance would be, what determines your value in life?

Stop 43 - St. Louis

Our team of wandering nomads rolled into the Show Me State (home of the fantastic ice cream shown in the above picture). While working with a unique set of thrift stores called Stuff-N-More, I gained a greater understanding of the need to help the whole person. While the store sold low cost goods to low income customers, the workers willing dolled out love, encouragement and prayer. As a result, the whole person (physical and spiritual) was nourished.

Remember, man cannot live on tasty ice cream alone.

Stop 43 - St. Louis (family oasis)

Homecoming is a tremendous blessing to many family members (old and new). With two friends from YWAM in tow, returning to my native land (or state) was a celebration of fun.