Furls Fire wrote:HUGGLESSSSSSSSS Soulbiter
I am so happy that you were able to read thru it all, it has become rather daunting. When I first started the thread, gosh 4 1/2 years ago, I never thought it would grow as large or as fast as it did. I have neglected it tho, and never seem to be able to pick it back up to the way it used to be...
Furls...first of all let me say there is no "used to be" when it comes to this thread. By no means am I a religious man, but I have always been truly touched by Stephen. Not because of his knowledge of Jesus as the son of God, but because of his conviction. Because of who he is. Because of the strength he held in spite of his illness. You spoke in this thread about putting this into book form. My personal opinion is that you should do that. I think Stephen's story needs to be shared by those who do not visit the Watch. I think your brother has a message for
everyone on
every level.
I think that regardless of any individual's beliefs, Stephen would be an inspiration to them.
I consider myself a "manly-man," and yet, I cannot read this thread without welling up with tears. I sat here for 3 hours yesterday re-reading every post, every word, and not even for one instant were my eyes dry.
So often I turn to a blank page in my notebook and begin to write. Yet more often do I close the book with a but a few words written. I am thrilled that this was not the case for Stephen. In his 59 posts here, he has touched my heart more than people that I have known for years.
With all that I am, I thank you for sharing your brother with me. I am humbled in the face of such beauty. And yet at the same time I feel sorrow that this thread has lay idle for over 2 months.
Stephen often spoke of his work here among us. Even though he longed to rest and be at peace and love in his cottage, there was a purpose for him here among us that needed to be fulfilled. Furls, I feel you have completed that purpose. You have allowed Stephen to touch more than those whom he met.
Stephen C. McKinney wrote:“I’m just a man, Nathan, like you. The world will go on as though I was never here.”
“You are wrong.” He whispered. And Tracie echoed. “Yes, wrong.” Then she locked eyes on Nathan. “My brother seems to think he is nothing special. He doesn’t realize light shines from him, and music lives in his voice. He doesn’t see himself as we see him. But, you see it, and I see it, and all who know and love him see it. You are right, Nathan, the world will weep.”
I end with this. I did not know Stephen, and still I weep.
Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want
to test a man's character, give him power.
--Abraham Lincoln
Excerpt from Animal Songs Never Written
"Hey, dad," croaked the vulture, "what are you eating?"
"Carrion, my wayward son."
"Will there be pieces when you are done?"
