Dear fans (haha):
Yes, I realize the ridiculousness of it. As if there are people out there thinking Go, Dallin—write away, big guy—knock one out of the park! And yet, I find it almost impossible to write without thinking of an audience (usually God or Bethany), so this one is for you, the reader.
As I have mentioned, I recently completed a writing goal: two essays a week for one year. I did this as a vow to God. Yes, I realize the ridiculousness of that also…God as a contractor…I made an agreement…He expects (or even worse) needs this done??? I know enough of my bible to realize my yes is to be yes and my no is to be no, and leave the long-term stuff to Him.
But this was my dilemma one year ago—I still felt a (you pick the word) calling, urge, summons, desire to write, but I didn’t know what to write. I didn’t want to write to try to get money. I didn’t want to write about teenagers anymore. My big retirement plan had been to write, and I had already spent five years piddling around.
That was my second biggest retirement plan. My first was to concentrate on my relationship with God. I knew I had just skated through a 33 year teaching career acknowledging Him when convenient, calling on Him when necessary. Now I had no excuses—I wanted to give Him my attention.
I have been trying to do that. It became evident what I wanted to write about—my Spiritual Journey. Why not? Everyone has one—though most of us (like me teaching) are only vaguely aware that we are on one. Jesus spent most of His ministry informing us that this journey far outweighs in importance any of the others (career, family, individual accomplishments) that we take.
I told my sister Miriam the other day that I was writing because I wanted my children (someday) to know what I thought about. She said, “Why? Do you wonder what our dad thought about? I don’t.” She had me for a second—until I realized it’s not about me, it’s about their own Spiritual Journeys. My hope and prayer is that their own awareness that they are on one will increase. I know theirs will be different than mine (they all are), but if I can encourage them in that direction, it will do more for them than any material inheritance I can leave.
If you have read this far, that makes you a fan (I know my wife will, and maybe a few others), and I hope and pray the same for you. I have journeyed far enough to know that God makes our lives adventurous and meaningful and fun-filled and glorious. His operating instructions are so simple: love Him and love one another. If I can encourage you or help you in any way on your Spiritual Journey, that fills me with joy.
Love,
Dallin
This made me emotional (again!!). I am most definitely a fan Dallin.…your writing is so vulnerable and honest! And what better encouragement from a Father (whether earthly or eternal) than to gently guide His children to embrace and love the journey and the awareness of God. Love this so much!!
I am a fan — I enjoy your writings — they make me think — reflect and recognize my blessings, my shortcomings, my awareness, that I am a reflection of what I have learned and still need to learn — my spiritual relationship with God is where I need to work. So thanks! I still remember one of our first “serious discussions” — NYPD Blue had just started and we were talking about the uproar before anyone had really viewed it — who knew it would be so tame compared to what is on TV today, and social networks! Have a safe summer!
I do want to know what you are thinking about and I suspect that someday these pats will be very precious to me. However, I think Nathan reads them more often.
Bless you, brother. Thank you for taking the time and having the courage to write all of your essays. In truth, I’ve only read a portion of them, but I’ve been moved or challenged or uplifted in someway by each one. I am inspired that you under took and accomplish this goal. Keep the faith, and keep on truckin’. Much love.
Plus three fans in this household. We love you! Xo A+N+A