The Hand In The Sky

It was the ramblings of one that seemed no less short than crazy. The man's thoughts coincided with his words, and out of his mouth came a myriad of incoherent matter, jumbled together as he sat in an interrogation room.

''I saw it! It was there, in the sky, big lights, a hand putting things in place!'' He cried. He struggled to break free from the handcuffs that restricted his movement.

Smiles around the room were sympathetic and eyes looked to the floor to avoid the association with the mans hysteria.

''I saw it!'' He pressed on. ''You think I'm crazy?''

Met with silence, he was lead away and placed in a big white room with padded walls and a secure lock.

''Do you think we should have at least heard him out?'' The Senior asked the Commanding Officer. ''There have been like reports of similar sightings''.

''The guys a nutcase'' The Commander replied, ''and I will have nobody undermine the operation that is currently in place. See to it that he is sedated and no word is heard from him again''.

The Senior stood staring. ''Sir?'' She stammered staring at her Superior.

''Get rid of him immediately.'' The Commander ordered, avoiding her eyes as he walked away briskly.

********************************

The Commander was akin to the big bang theory, a staunch believer that the anatomy of man came into existence by the chance of the cosmological theory of atoms and gravity meeting together and producing what is known as earth life today. He dismissed the question when asked by a reporter, ''But where did gravity then come from?''.

Instead he pursed his lips, ended the press conference and refused anymore questions.

Back at the office the Senior was quiet. Her thoughts ran back to the life of the crazy man that was no more. ''You OK?'' She asked the Commander.

He responded with a grimace and a forced smile. ''Too much to think about, too much to deal with.''

Not long after the order to end the life of the man that proved a hindrance to him in his pursuit to discount the existence of God, the Commander had strange images invade his mind at night. Dreams and visions of a voice that spoke deep into his heart. A voice that made him question his theological views.

He realised now that the order to end the life of the man that he had dismissed as crazy had been a grave mistake. The 'hand putting things in place' that he had been told of, he himself had seen. Notices of sightings from others continued to flood in. Sky News and CNN Breaking News coverage were inundated with calls.

''Reports have just come in that a great hand in the sky has been seen placing and aligning stars and constellations into the heavens.'' the newsreader relayed. ''The firmaments are submissive to It's command, and the heavens have opened it's mouth at It's word.''

It was world wide knowledge now that ''the hand'' truly played a part in the creation of the world. No theological viewpoint could explain the obvious intervention of evidence over rationale.

The Commander sank to his knees and sobbed.

''What is the matter Commander? The Senior asked. ''Surely these new revelations prove to be a stepping stone to propel the notion of a Creator that we rejected? Though the existence of a Creator is not what we sought after, as least we have a sound explanation of the world we live in.''

The Commander with his head bowed low, cried. ''I weep,'' he said, ''because instead of due judgment in taking the innocent life of another and rejecting the existence of this...this'' He faltered. ''MY Creator''. His voice broke.

''I was instead shown the mercy and grace of His hand. I prepared to receive pain and punishment, as we so clearly see daily around the world, this being the reasoning for my rejection of one such as He. I thought He was the author of famine, natural disasters and economic meltdowns, even death. Expecting the latter, instead my life has been spared.''

''Commander?'' The Senior replied, ''I don't understand.''

''It was not just a hand Senior,'' he continued hoarsely. ''it was an all consuming being that came to me, and spoke to me.'' The Commander explained, ''He presented Himself to me as Father and called me His son. He told me that whosoever believes in Him shall not die, but instead have everlasting life.''

The Commander raised his hands and held them up to the sky. He closed his eyes and took in a deep breath, seemingly consumed by an invisible force as tears rolled down his face.

''Commander?'' The Senior asked taken aback by the emotion of her Commander. ''What does that mean for the life of the man that we called crazy? He tried to tell us of this and we dismissed him.''

The Commander smiled a genuine, thankful, grateful smile. ''My Father told me that I was forgiven for my error when my heart brought it before Him, for this, a burden has been lifted from me. Before he was lead away the man leaned towards me and he whispered something.''

The Senior was intrigued, consumed by the immense heat and the warmth of the love that seeped from the core of her Commanders being.

''I did not understand it then,''whispered the Commander. ''But it makes sense now.''

''What did he say?'' The Senior asked.

He simply said, ''It's OK, I believe''.

Thank You!

Hi All!

I just wanted to extend some thanks over to you for taking the time to read my blog.

It pleases me to know that I can share a little bit of what I love with others. Some of you have stumbled upon the various pages, others have intentionally entered in.

I hope the stories do make impact. Some are purely for fun, to invoke some laughter, and some inspirational and thought provoking. My earlier posts are simple anecdotes from my day to day life encounters and memories.

Either way, keep reading, and keep enjoying and ta very much for the visits!

Miss Dramani x

A Simple Revelation

Indeed it is said of him by many that he is wonderful and great
He smiles and is resolute

He bows, shakes hands and greets a multitude of people
He is highly esteemed, well known for all he achieves
His works tell the tale of his impressive disposition
He is the epitome of the one who is the ideal candidate for praise

He represents the one who is comfortable being part of an association
The need to adapt and belong, disassociates him from the true foundation
For even though his voice is lifted high above in the secret place
It is in the hope to see an effect of his presence wherever he may go

He dismisses the fact the Great and Majestic One looks into the sinews of his heart
Focusing only on the reality of his efforts and accomplishments, his degrees and Phd's
He places the Majestic One a little lower than his counterparts
That is all that matters to him

He lives in a world where the true foundation, by his standards, does not relate
Therefore he defaults and takes matters into his own hands
Those closest to him he has no thought of
His words are bitter, harsh and unloving and crude

Yet in a moment, there are those who he feels a great need to please
So he runs to and fro and performs an open opera of great indignation
His pillow is familiar with the damp stains, made from tears that sting hot within his eyes
As he realises there is a void that needs to be filled

The mockery of relying on his own efforts by the means of affiliation and works
The emptiness and the validity of his need to be accepted
Only allows him to see the frugality of his own efforts
Bringing him back to the heart of faith without reasoning

To the core of trust without questioning
Service alongside anonymity
A total abandonment of self will
Simply brings him back to know the Father heart of God

You Will Not Walk Alone

Dark stood before him, surrounded by folds of anger that exuded acrimonious tones of bitterness and evil intent.

Light stood tall, resplendent in all His glory, glimmers and rays of wonder surrounded Him.

He drew forth Hsword and took a step toward Dark. He lunged forth and began to run as He cried.

''She will not walk alone!''

**********

''Father, I pray,'' the old woman bowed down on her knees. ''In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, I pray, ''she will not walk alone''.

**********

Mona hurried along aware that it was late and it was dark. She wrapped her coat tightly around her exhaling as her breath hit the cold winter air.

She sensed that something was different, unsure of what it was she began to jog, eager to get back inside the warmth and security of her home.

**********

Dark retaliated and called forth his army. They stood leering , jeering, cajoling and ready to fight.

He who was encased in light opened His mouth and spoke forth a word as He again drew forth His sword.

''She will not walk alone.'' He said.

He swiped His sword, and the battle commenced.

**********

On her knees she remained. The old woman's mouth barely open as her lips moved rapidly. Silently soft words escaped from her mouth.

''She will not walk alone.''

**********
Mona saw the figure from the corner of her eye. She turned and saw him step back into the shadows. Along the alleyway she began to run, her heels clicking, echoing the desperation and urgency all around her.

''Dear Lord'' She cried. ''I will not walk alone.''

**********

The old woman rose up from her knees and knew the urgent prayer for her daughter's protection had been heard.

**********

The one encased in darkness withdrew as he realised he was no match for the one who exuded total and majestic power. The will of God had been fulfilled.

**********

Back at home Mona watched the news of the man who was lead away in handcuffs. She was saddened to know that there was another who had met an untimely end. He had been caught in the same alleyway she had been on. She called the police to identify, she had seen the murderer lurking in the dark.

''Why?'' she asked, as he brushed past her in court. Life was his sentence. ''Why did you not attack me?''.

''Because you were not alone.'' the man responded. ''A tall tall man was walking by your side''.

**********

An adaptation

Dear John

Dear John,

You just couldn't resist could you?

I had so much going on, what with the re-mortgage, I lost my dad, the cat fell ill. It was too much.

I miss that ginger cat more than anything.

Anyway. I really wanted to thank you. Thank you for never being there.

Out shopping when you say you've been at work. I saw the empty Tiffany bag with the receipt for a platinum diamond ring.

Thank you for always being out, spending your money gambling on the lottery.

But I think the time has come.

What will I miss? The burnt pizzas, the overcooked steaks, the under done chips...well...maybe not much.

When I needed you most, you were never there to wipe away my tears.

Thank you though for making me realise what I was worth. More than you.

I also thank my friends that they told me about that tall beautiful lady they saw you with huddled together, giggling over something special, I guess I know who the diamond ring was for.

The way they described her, well, I guess I'm no match.

I don't have time to fight over what is mine and what should have been.

My pillow met with many tears and my therapist was happy at the added extras to her bank account.

Your new found extra curricular activity has me bidding you fare well.

But in all honesty, your dishonesty gives me the perfect opportunity to tell you, I've met someone new.

Jane.

________________________________________

Dear Jane,

Thank you for your letter.

All I can simply say is...

What your friends forgot to point out was that the lady I huddled and giggled with was a vet.

We both were ecstatic at having revived our ginger cat, ready to bring her home to you.

Not to mention the gorgeous diamond ring I bought.

That night, I reserved a table for two, to let you know those six lucky numbers I stayed loyal to had won.

Twenty-nine million pounds worth of smiles and dreams fulfilled.

But you never showed up. Guess Your friends got to you first.

Oh and that ring? It was meant to be for that second to last finger on your left hand.

As I asked you to be my wife.

Tough luck for you Jane.

I'm on a cruise ship now with our old ginger cat and that giggling laughing lady wearing your diamond ring.

John.

________________________________________

Dear John,

Sorry that letter was meant for someone else.

Bring the cat along on your way back home will you?

It's pizza, steak and chips for dinner.

Lots and lots of love,

Jane.

He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not

How was your day honey?'' Her Father asked

''This is what happened'' she said. ''Let me tell you the simple story''

**********************

Skipping, dancing prancing, jumping twirling

The flowers in the yellow filled flower meadows stretched mile upon mile upon mile

My smile told of happy moments

Singing,dancing, gleefully content

A buttercup in my hand, I sang

''He loves me, he loves me not, he loves me, he loves me not''

Yellow petals pulled from it's home fluttered into the sky with each lamentation

Holding the flower with one petal left, I screeched

''He loves me, he loves me!''

Pink ribbon in my hair, white cotton summer dress and loose strappy sandals

I was the epitome of all things sweet in a young sweet girl

My friends giggled along with me

''He loves you'' They screeched

I clutched on to my dismal looking flower

Running towards the van that stopped alongside the yellow filled meadows

''Ice-cream time!'' We screamed in unison

Impatiently tapping our feet at the young boy and his girl love in front

''What do you want Baby?'' He crooned, ''Anything for you''

''This one.'' She pointed to the extravagant chocolate tipped cone with promises of sweet vanilla and caramel droppings

''He loves me!'' I trilled holding up my flower

Sun shining down, us sweet young girls smiled and giggled in anticipation of our choice

My smile turned upside down as the young boy and his girl love turned to walk away with their chocolate vanilla caramel delight

Familiar in face, stature and words I stopped him and cried

''You said you loved me! Who then is she?'' My finger pointed at the intruder, waving my one petaled flower in his face in distress

''She's my girl. And what?'' He swaggered

Tears rolled down my face

************

''Is this what happened to you today sweetheart?'' Her Father consoled her

''What you will not find in another, just know that you will always find it in me.''

Her Father held her close and she smiled and knew that all he said was truth

She would not find in another what she would find in him

She handed him her flower stem, her buttercup with one petal standing

He plucked off the lone ranger and tossed it into the air

She smiled at him and sighed

''He loves me''

You Only Live Once

The wind in her hair reminded her of the days of impromptu drives with her teenage love, in his car with the rooftop down

Dust in her sandals brought back memories of their fun and laughter on a sandy beach after a midnight escape from her bedroom window

The sound of an ice cream van reminded her of the desperate craving for a 99p flake courtesy of the one who loved to hold her hand

The ringing of the church bells made her laugh at the so many hour late arrivals to Sunday service

The announcement of a delayed train arrival brought recollections of a four hour long bus ride alternative

The appearance of rain drops brought to mind a mad dash in the rain soaked through and through

Her reflection in the mirror showed the lines on her face that a thousand yesterdays had added

A thousand yesterdays reminded her of the myriad of tomorrows still to come

With the car rooftop down, wind in her greying hair she turned to smile at her love

'You only live once, they say. We may as well live it twice over while we can'...

What Tomorrow Holds

Too much to think of what tomorrow holds

Too much to think of what yesterday could have been

Eyes closed, deep breath in

And then, exhale

Now able to view the blue skies and the grey clouds

A contrast of one and another fighting to gain ground

Brother and sister strolling down the street

Crossing the road at a red light, she holds him back

'You'll get done for jay walking you know'

'I'm older than you'

'Stop behaving like a child then'

A car running through the stop sign.

A hit. A mangled mess

Police sirens making it impossible for some to continue their phone conversation

'What is all that noise?' A girl asks her friend

'Just the crazy squads with no where to go'

Too much to think of what tomorrow holds

Too much to think of what yesterday could have been

Eyes closed, deep breath in

And then, exhale

Now seeing only the grey clouds overtaking the blue

A sister to a brother. CPR

Ambulance. Police. Spectators passing by.

'Please open your eyes!'

Brother swimming deeply in and out, in and out of time

So young, so caring, so free and daring. Daring enough to cross at a red light

Now she is the oldest. And of this she has no choice

Too much to think of what tomorrow holds

Too much to think of what yesterday could have been

An Abyss Of Inertia

She lay backwards in a charcoal abyss of inertia. Silence was golden as the quiet waves of the vacuum invaded her mind.

In contrast, the warmth enclosure of her inner sanctuary attempted to contradict the cold waves of the ever pursuing external intrusion.

She grieved as she turned one way, and the other. Insurmountable waves of sensitivity, that which she was unable to describe, but at best experienced as being acute, raw, deep and severe.

Cold jaws of strength with permission to enter infiltrated her place of torment. Gripping, gnawing, grabbing, all the while only enhancing her need to be released.

She cried out as the darkness threatened to consume her total being as fractals of light exposed her extreme displeasure, seemingly fighting, both in and out of one and the other.

From the abyss to the fractals, the consuming darkness to the exuding light.

She whimpered, unable to do much else as that which was within her was bound by restrictions.

Waves, upon waves of sudden bolts of unfamiliarity. Shock waves of first time encounters that provoked further cries.

A surge of strength, the golden silence was invaded by reverberations of only what she knew to be silence in its newest form. Silence enhanced with external echoes of alien sounds and cries from the outward.

Invasions of the alien unknown permitted her to become accustomed to mirroring the same.

A new sensation, still wrapped in the deep dark eclipse of all that she knew, a gentle touch upon her crown.

Still the battle raged, as the walls surrounding her fought a war to gain an expected end. She clawed at the surface of her incarceration as the movement that followed threatened to expel.

A sudden retreat within herself by no choice of her own, and the surge of the outer source, her land of void was met with a plethora of desires no longer wishing the inertia to exist.

A sea of light. A new world.

Her eyes remained closed, consumed with thoughts unexplainable.

The golden silence was penetrated with sounds of gladness and joy.

A soft thud. An obtrusion within her mouth channel to remove the residue left by her travels. Out came a loud piercing cry.

On her part, the trauma left her consumed with distress as her deep lamentations told the story of her journey from within.

She was placed upon a soft warm surface, a place she instinctively knew was hers to assume.

She smiled her first smile forgetting the distress as she lay upon her mothers chest.

She, the new baby had just been born.

An Answer To Prayer

I'm going to die'' he thought as his life flashed before his eyes. ''Surely, my time has come''.

He was a missionary in Africa, called to bring the good news of the gospel to the many that had never heard it.

His friends had tried to talk him out of going. ''It's a big step, out there on your own. Are you sure you want to do this?''.

He had responded by packing his essentials and confirming his flight out of London.

Upon arrival, the village inhabitants had been friendly at first, adapting to the new found help and genuine friendship, but they began to fear when they heard rumours from those that disapproved, that the white man was out to kill.

As he went on his daily ritual to bring food and clothing to those that were in need, on this particular occasion he found a gathering outside one of the familiar huts.

He heard chanting and shouts and as he walked closer they drew spears, hissed at his newly un-welcomed approach.

Two of the men he had come to know very well ran over and grabbed him in a headlock as he was dragged away and tied up by a tree.

He knew then that his life was in danger. Their once friendly smiles had turned into twisted contempt a he was met with looks of disapproval.

He heard the cricket sound, and smelt the freshly lit fire ready to cook the bush meat that had been caught earlier with his help.

The women and children hid inside the huts looking outside, seeking comfort and solace in the safety of their humility.

Their eyes revealed the fear they felt for his own life.

''I'm going to die'' he thought ''Surely, my time has finally come''.

He closed his eyes and did what he knew best. He prayed a simple prayer.

As his newly found enemies drew closer, their grimaces emphasised their intent.

He closed his eyes and waited for the what was to come.

And then he heard it.

He opened his eyes in surprise, for it was faint at first, he was unsure if what he so longed for had deceived him. He cocked his head to one side as it was roughly pushed back.

'Sit still''. His captures spat.

He cowered in his makeshift prison, tied and bound and listened.

It was a definite sound. A sound met with the softly blowing wind, and an echo that seemed out of place.

He looked up and saw, not one, not two, but a few hundred men running towards him. At the sound of the rush, he prayed the simple prayer.

The strangers rushed forth and raised their weapons as they invaded the space. The inhabitants ran forth ready to fight, but eventually turned and ran in defeat faced by a number not to be conquered. These tall strong strange men they raged against were no match.

He was untied and lead away to safety. His salvation had come.

''What happened that day?'' his friends asked when he was back home in London as he recalled the story. ''Where did all those men come from''?

''I don't know'' he replied. ''I simply prayed, and there I found my rescue''.

''What did you pray exactly?'' One friend asked.

''I simply prayed', he recalled ''For You have commanded Your angels concerning me to guard me in all Your ways''.

''Psalm 91'', his friend whispered the colour draining from his face.

''What is the matter?'' he asked concerned at the change he saw.

His friend took a deep breath. '''For on that same day that you were in trouble, I and these few here got together feeling the need to pray for you. We stood in agreement and prayed that as the Lord has commanded His angels to guard you in all of your ways, that He surely should''.

He was stunned into silence.

''We asked that you be surrounded, not by one, not two, but a few hundred men''.

On his knees he fell, and gave thanks to the God he believed in, the one who truly was his salvation.

All That Glitters

''Mum look'' Ray cried. ''Look at the beautiful birds, they fly so quickly''. Ray pointed to the sky. His jeans were torn, his shoelaces untied.

''Yes Darling,'' Kat was frantic. ''Wonderful''. She was absent minded as she admired her newly manicured nails.

Kat heard her Mother's voice in her head. ''Pay attention to the boy Kat''.

Where had it gone? It was there a moment ago, and when she held up her hand to admire it, it was no longer there.

''I think I need a smaller size,'' she had mused, flicking her hair out of her face admiring her diamond ring set in a gold platinum. ''It seems a little loose''.

''Mum look''. Ray cried invading her thoughts. ''There's a rainbow''. He pointed at the blue sky above. ''One day I'll get you a gift wrapped in multi coloured ribbons''. His hair was dirty and unkempt.

Her Mother's voice came through her thoughts again. ''Pay attention to the boy Kat''.

'Yes Ray'', Kat grabbed his hand. 'Beautiful rainbow. Wonderful gift''. Her 6 inch heels clicked on the ground as she strode along.

She'd been out on a shopping spree. ''Pick up my things for me Ray.'' Kat pointed at her bags as she searched all around.

Her thoughts were elsewhere as she looked high and low. In the playground park, out on the street, re-tracing every step.

Where in the world was it? Her heart beat fast as she thought of the loss. She glanced at her expensive watch and smeared on her lipstick.

''Ray, please, could you help Mummy find her ring? It's the most important thing right now.'' Kat pulled Ray along. ''She's lost it, have you seen it?''.

Ray pulled his coat closer to him, he was cold and shivering.

She ran to and fro, asking around. Sweet shop keepers nodded no, ''Sorry love''.

Butchers were busy selling the latest piece of meat. ''Sorry, no''.

The homeless man replied ''No, but could you spare some change please?''.

Kat dragged Ray along as he pulled at her coat tail.

''Mum look''. He said, his eyes welled with tears as he held out his hand.

''Not now Ray, I have more important things to think about!''.

Back at home Kat raved on the phone to her Mother.

''I don't know, Mum, I told you, it was there one moment, and then the next, it had disappeared''.

''Mum look'' Ray patted her thigh, holding out his hand. His lips were blue, his tiny body shook.

''Ray please! I am on the phone. Make yourself a hot drink and go to bed!'' Kat's voice was sharp.

''You know, you should take it easy on him'' Her Mother said softly. ''Take some time out for him. Pay attention to the boy''.

''Yes, OK Mum. Off course.'' Kat paced up and down, looking under the couch, out on the balcony, behind the curtains.

She threw back her duvet and found nothing. She sighed, exasperated, running her fingers through her hair.

She hear a sudden crash and Ray scream.

''Mum!!'' He called.

She found him unconscious, milk all over the kitchen floor. His body was cold. Kat looked at his torn jeans, untied shoe laces, unkempt hair, dirty face, and touched his cold blue lips.

''Somebody help me!" She cried.

At the hospital the Doctor was sympathetic, he consoled Kat in a hug.

"I'm sorry''. He shook his head. ''Meningitis. There was nothing we could do''.

''No!!" Kat howled.

Back at home, Kat fell to her knees. Her hair was messy, face tear stained, mis-matched clothes thrown on at her rush to the hospital.

''Please forgive me.'' She cried to open air. She called her Mother. ''Mama, you were right. I should have paid more attention'', she whispered, heart broken, tears rolling down her face, the phone fell from her hand.

She walked bleary eyed into Ray's room, and sat on his bed.

She looked around his room, pale, tear streaked face. She glimpsed something shiny from his bedside table. A note and a gift wrapped in multi coloured ribbons.

She picked up the note. ''Mama Look... I got you a gift''. It read. ''I found it in the park and I tried to tell you, but you were too busy. Even though I didn't feel too good, I wanted to help you because you were the most important thing to me...and I knew this was the most important thing to you''.

She unwrapped it to find a beautiful diamond set in a gold platinum ring.

Kat closed her eyes and wept.

Supergirl?

'I am Supergirl, I can do this' she said to herself as she tripped over her left foot.

She could hear the footsteps quickly approaching.

She closed her eyes and tried to remember her Mama's words.

'You can do this' her Mama had said having found her in the crater after the meteorite had collided. She had amazing strength and power.

'It doesn't matter that she lacks intelligence and common sense Dan' her Mama had reassured her husband later on. 'She is beautiful and strong and she will be like Clark Kent. She will be Supergirl'.

'I can do this' she said. She squinted her eyes as a red laser beam shot out obliterating the wall in front of her. She stumbled over the debris and fell, stunned, she spat dust out of her mouth. She was met with a door. One staunch punch, and the door fell through. Rubbing her knuckles, and her knees, she was met with stairs running into her feet. She ran down them, and saw the exit sign in a mirror.

She turned in the opposite direction and ran. Now where is the exit? she mused.

Pausing to put on some lipstick and brush her hair, she was interrupted by the sound of hurried footsteps, she looked around, frantic.

She saw a sliver of light and ran to escape. Finger pointed straight ahead she shot out a stretch of stringy rubbery residue which went no further than an inch. Kicking the dismal residue, she limped to the light and jumped high and reached up clinging to an edge. She peered over and saw a glass shield. About to break it open she saw the sign that said 'Bull dog beyond, enter at your peril'. She gazed down at her already chipped newly manicured fingernails and decided against any further damage.

Falling back into a sea of clutter that broke her fall, she kicked boxes and junk from her and brushed her hair from her eyes.

'Mama said there would be days like this' she muttered.

She stood up tall and swiped her cape around her ready to face her assailant, ready to save the world.

'I am Supergirl'. She twirled, arm punched up into the air, hand on hip.

Her assailant reached her, stopped, then sneered. He laughed as he lumbered towards her.

'Mama!!!!' She cried turning and running away full speed towards the bull dog.
__________________

CNN BREAKING NEWS: Girl with superhuman powers is chased by burly assailant.

'It's a learning curve Dan', Her Mama said patting her husbands hand and gazing at their daughters debut on the news. 'She'll get it one day. She'll get it one day'.

High Flier

She saw the red hot sun, but shook her head as she retreated backwards. 'Tweet', came the sweet sound from within her. 'Tweet, tweet tweet tweet'.

She felt a rush and a swish as she was pushed forward. 'Stop that tweeting'.

The familiar voice didn't tweet. It cawed. 'You are not here to tweet'.

She fluttered forward and faltered. She looked below and instinctively took a step backward. Too high. Too much below, too much to be up against. The memories of yesterday and the day before and the numerous failures before that flooded back. She turned and looked to the familiar face. 'Tweet?'. She sulked questionably.

She was pushed again, 'Go forward' the voice instructed. 'It's the only way you will learn'.

She moved forward, tentatively, slowly judging each step she took.

She heard the cracks, heard the ground breaking beneath her as they always did, yet she knew, this time, she had to keep on moving towards the goal.

At the edge, she perched and looked down. Overtaken by fear, she took a step backwards, paused, pirouetted around, then swooned down covering her face. She tweeted.

'Drama Queen'. The voice replied. 'Do you not know who you are?'. Again she felt a strong support lift her up, set her right, back on to the horizontal.

'Go' the voice said as she was nudged again. 'Go. You are able to do more than you think. Go'.

She looked downwards. She wanted to take a step back, but the familiar form behind her would not allow it this time. She took a step forward, another, and then another. Met with thin air, she immediately fell. The view she saw below her very quickly came towards her. Her heart beat fast as she tried to assume the correct position. She flapped. and flapped and flapped. She flapped as if to flap away the fast approaching ground. She squeezed her eyes tightly shut and tweeted. As she flapped, she realised that her course had changed. Instead of downwards, she began to lift...upwards!.

'Caaaw!!' The familiar voice screeched from above. 'Caaaw!'.

She lifted her wings and soared.

She soared and she soared with such power and strength. She turned back to the familiar form. She no longer tweeted, but cawed.

Her mother looked on, lovingly and proud.

So powerful and full of strength she soared. She was a new born eagle learning, soaring towards that red hot sun.

The Long Road Home

The young boy opened his eyes as a lone tear trailed down his cheek. He slowly sat up and looked around him observing his surroundings. He was surprised to see that it was dark, the smell around him was awful and he was blackened with dirt. His heart sunk as he realised the severity of his mistake. How had he failed to understand so late?

The longing for another life, the need to explore and find his own path. The pulls and desires of the world had unmercifully gained his attention and lead him to a faraway place. He had heard about the progression of humanity. The wonders that science could now produce.

He had read of the new ventures to that ethereal planet that glowed white that would shine bright in the darkened sky. First man walked on it, and now there was the chance to go and live there. He had without a second thought or deliberation sold all he had been given and and secured a place to be one of the few to relocate.

He closed his eyes and took in a deep breath. He remembered all that he had left behind, he recalled the times when he could truly express happiness, content in a place that was rightfully his to be in. That old world was full of love, laughter, forgiveness and allowances for mistakes. It comforted him when he was disheartened, and gave hope when there seemed to be none. It gave him a reason to live and allowed him to build friendships and relationships that were both frustrating yet meaningful.

This new world. He choked on his tears as he let out a sob. This new world was cold, dominated by an all consuming darkness. How had he not seen this before? This world left him with nothing. It was nothing but grey sandy shores and unreachable mountains. He reminisced on what once was. He had been generously allowed a share of his inheritance. But his greed had lead him to want for more.

Upon arrival at his new foundations, he had been excited and full of expectancy. Having sold all he owned, this new found freedom, the new surroundings were well worth the exchange. Humanity had built humble abodes fit for man to live in. The proceeds he had made from all that he had sold meant that he was able to live a rather comfortable life. Indeed, he wasted a lot of what was his on a lot of meaningless things belonging to others.

Communication was scarce in this new faraway land, so there was no way of knowing the terrible fate that lay ahead. There was no means of knowing that a meteor was in alignment with his new found home. Nobody was prepared for the hit, nor the devastation that it left behind. He had nothing now, he had lost it all. He was forced to work and live amongst the poorest of inhabitants, and even they seemed to have more than he did.

He rose to his feet, as quickly as he was allowed, and scowled at the sea of inertia. He could see the blue and green planet that had once been his own. It's beauty was highlighted by the rays of sunlight that shone upon it's existence. His heart longed for that place as he felt a deep sense of displeasure. He felt it first in his stomach and then it slowly rose up. A hot searing pain as he opened his mouth and released a blood curdling howl for the old world that he longed for. At the awful sound that came from within him was released, only silence bounced back. He looked around and found no one. Nobody. Nothing. He was alone. He had nothing. Nothing but one last thing.

The young boy traveled for a time. He wanted to move faster, but outside the confinements of the man made habitable surroundings, he faced limitations. He had an agenda, he had to reach his destination, his face was contorted with concentration. From afar, he could make out the station, the place that had been his point of arrival. There, he pulled out his one last piece of belonging, the only thing that he had left. It was his return ticket home.

____________________________

The old man had woken up from a restless sleep. He had felt a stirring in his heart. He slowly got out of bed and walked to the window. He looked outside. Every morning he would do the same thing. Sometimes he would go and sit outside, just staring. And as he sat staring outside, he would only be greeted by the night owls and the winds gently blowing through the trees. He would go about his daily business, looking after his staff, making sure his son was fed, yet that stirring was still there.

He had wept when he had read of the disaster that had struck the moon. He had a choice not to believe the worst, he would still hold on to a glimpse of hope. But news reports had stated there had been devastation. He could not assume, only just hope. His son would console him, tell him not to worry, but his heart would not allow him otherwise.

So it was, that on this occasion as he stared out of the window, along with the owls, and the gentle breeze flowing through the trees, he could make out a distant figure. He took his glasses and placed them on to get a clearer view. Yes, he could see a definite figure in the distance. He didn't think to put on a coat to shield him from the winter cold, nor shoes to protect his calloused feet from the stones on the ground. Instead he opened the door of his house and began to run to the figure.

The stirring in his heart he knew had been preparing him for such a time as this. He ran, and he ran, and he ran. He did not feel the cold air, nor the numbness in his fingers. Nor did he feel the pain in his feet as each footstep met with the gravelly sharp stones leaving bloody footprints in the ground.

The distant figure at first took slow footsteps, then he mirrored the pace, he too began to sprint. He ran and he ran and he ran. He ran straight into the open arms of the old man, as the old man hugged and kissed the young boy.

'Father', the young boy said, 'please, forgive me. I lost my mind'.

The old man wept, tears rolled down his face he looked at the young boy with pure joy.

'Son', the old man whispered. 'I have been waiting for you. Welcome home'.

A Moment of Insanity

It was because of a moment of insanity.

There had to be no other explanation. Well known as being the quiet type, never to hurt a fly.

Why though?

It was simply a moment of insanity.

Stress, some would say. Demands of a heavy work load, the need to have to compete and please and stay one step ahead of the game.

Can you explain?

It was a moment of insanity, I said.

For off course, the ways of life could easily demand to support solitude and contentment rather than having to enjoy.

Yes, but why?

It was just a moment of insanity.

The loneliness of one that craved the companionship of another.

OK...give an analogy. May help to make one understand.

It was only...a moment...of insanity. Gritted teeth, fingernails grating the table.

Like the white bread toasted mornings with a cold cup of black tea. The mortgage didn't leave enough to allow for wholemeal, brown sugar, hot water and milk, ok?

Ok, ok, calm down...So it was?

Yes...Simply a moment of insanity.

The need to be more than, but less than intended.

It was a moment of insanity.

The endless moments of the insane insanity of the mundane life of one less than ordinary that only highlighted insanity.

So, that was it then?

Yes. It was. Just a moment of insanity.

One that lead another to lovingly stroke the cat and then throw it into a wheelie bin.

To Forgive and Forget...

Her hands were tied behind her back, and the rope that held them was cutting into her, as she twisted and turned to get them free.

'Please, let me go' she cried. 'Please, I don't know why you're doing this!'.

He walked over and stood behind her, placing his hands on her shoulders. 'You really don't need to worry' he whispered as he leaned forward to her ear.

She flinched as she felt him come close.

'I'm not going to hurt you'.

_______________________________________

Mira had to talk loudly to be be heard above the loud vibrations around her. She had decided to venture out and go to a bar with Louise's boyfriend Charlie and the new guy she had been seeing, Adrian. Although she was a little tired, she was getting into the night, and began to dance to the music.

'This is great huh?' Mira shouted over the music at Louise. Louise laughed and half smiled as she glanced at her watch.

'Would you ladies like another drink?' Adrian asked as he sauntered over with Charlie in tow.

'Sure, yes the usual for me' Mira replied smiling up at him.

'And for you Louise?' Adrian asked hugging Mira close to him.

'Just the same, thank you sir' Louise replied as she winked.

Mira smiled after the two guys as they walked off to the bar. She couldn't believe her luck at having met Adrian. He was gorgeous. Tall, short trim hair, good build, amazing eyes. Mira didn't just take to him because of the way he looked, but he was amazing because they had become the best of friends. He seemed to know her so well, and they would often spend hours talking on the phone and enjoying each others company. She would watch TV or paint and he would read. She would always tease him when he would put his glasses on after taking out his contacts.

'You look like a geek with those on'. she teased him recently. 'Similar to a boy I knew at school. Your glasses are so thick'. Adrian had tensed and put down his book, teeth clenched as he smiled.

'So what do you want do do for your birthday?' He had asked.

It had been Mira's birthday two days ago, and she had agreed to go out for a celebratory drink. She hated celebrating her birthday way back from her teenage years. Her family had tried to organise untold surprise parties in the past for her 16th, 18th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd and 24th and 25th thereafter, but Mira was never really into all of that. She promptly acquired a knack of finding out about any surprise happenings and promptly never showed up. She vowed nobody would ever throw her a surprise anything, at least one she didn't know about or didn't consent to. After her 25th, there had been no other attempts. Now that it was her big 3-0, Mira carefully scrutinised all her friends and family to make sure they didn't have any ideas in mind.

She'd spent a quiet night in with Adrian on her actual birthday, and now this was the closest celebration she would have after Adrian, Louise and Charlie told her they were taking her out for a drink whether she liked it or not.

Adrian and Charlie came back with the drinks. They danced and talked for a little while before Louise signaled she was ready to go.

'Oh, I was only just enjoying myself' Mira cried. 'You can go Louise, I'll stay with Adrian'.

'Oh, Mira', Adrian frowned, glancing at Lousie. 'I'm pretty beat as well hon, it's been a long day. I think we'd better call it a night'.

Mira sulked, clearly disappointed. Outside it was cold. Adrian had gone back inside because he had forgotten his hoodie.

'See you later babe'. Louise kissed Mira on the cheek. 'Hope you enjoyed!'. Charlie gave her a hug and they both went their way.

Mira stood and hugged herself. She frowned and looked back at the doors of the bar wondering what was taking Adrian so long.

Suddenly Mira felt strong arms around her as a gag was stuffed into her mouth and a bag was pulled over her head. She began kicking and screaming, her heart beating intensely at the sudden attack as she was dragged a short distance. She heard muffled voices that she couldn't make out. Her hands were grabbed and tied behind her back as she was pushed into the back of a car. A door opened and closed as she heard an engine start and the car began to move.

Mira was petrified, she screamed and kicked but couldn't do much because she was restricted. Hot tears rolled down her face. The car finally stopped and she heard the car door open and close. Her side door opened as strong arms pulled her out. She struggled and kicked but wasn't a match for the strong frame holding her. She was lifted and carried as footsteps sounded heavy and hurried. Her voice was muffled under the gag, and her words couldn't be made out as she twisted and turned to get free.

The movement stopped and she heard a key turn and a door open and close before she was lead to a chair. The bag over her head was removed, but it didn't help that she could see nothing sitting in total darkness. She cocked her head to the side - she thought she had heard voices. She listened closely, but all was silent around her. The gag was removed form her mouth, and Mira immediately screamed as loud as she could.

'Shhhhh' Mira heard the voice calm her down. 'I'm not going to hurt you'. She heard a match strike behind her.

'Please!' Mira cried out wriggling in her seat. 'Please don't set me alight, please, please don't burn me!'.

The man moved over to where she was and set a candle on a table. Mira squinted and could now make out his face.

She gasped in shock. 'Why? Why are you doing this? Whats going on'? She stammered.

Mira began to cry, and whimper. 'What's happening? What's going on?' Adrian stared at her silently.

'Adrian? Baby why?' she whispered. 'Who are you?!'

'Why? Adrian replied, slowly walking in around her. 'Who am I?' He straightened up and took a deep breath.

'Lets see if I can trigger your memory Mira dear, since you have so easily forgotten'.

He slowly pulled out a photo and laid it on the table that was beside her. He pushed the candle close so she could see the picture. Mira leaned over and peered. As the candle flickered, she could just about make out a boy in the photo. A boy with think horn rimmed glasses. He had braces on his teeth and he was fat and stout.

'Oh my gosh' Mira spluttered. 'That's Eaide from junior school! Adrian, I don't get this. Please untie me now. This joke is over'.

'Eaide', Adrian repeated. 'Yes Eaide. You know, the fat short stubby kid that you used to tease Mira. You used to push him down onto the floor and spit on him. You'd take his glasses off so he couldn't see properly. Yes, Eaide.' Adrian stopped and paused.

'Eaide was me Mira' Adrian spoke softly pointing to the picture. 'That was me'.

Mira squeezed her eyes shut and opened them again. 'Oh my goodness' she whimpered. She began to cry.

'I am so sorry Adrian! Please forgive me! I was cruel, mean, I was only a child, I didn't know what I was doing'. Mira struggled with her hands wanting to be free. 'I love you!' She cried.

'Shhh, shhh,' Adrian stroked her hair, 'Don't cry Mira, this isn't what you think. I'm not going to hurt you. I was hurt by what you did, but I grew up learning to forgive. I grew up a lot in fact'. He stood to his full 6 feet 5. 'And the old days, well, they don't bother me so much now'.

He smiled at her. 'I really liked you back then you know. In fact, I love you too. But I vowed, that If I ever did meet you again, I would have to pay you back for what you put me through. You know the whole forgive but never forget saying?'.

Mira nodded, tears welled in her eyes.

'Well, the 'never forget' kind of takes over'. Adrian paused.

'I bumped into Louise a while back before I met you, and we got talking' he said.

'Louise?' Mira asked puzzled? What does Louise have to do with this?'

'Yeah' Adrian grinned. 'We talked, and that's when we decided this whole thing'.

'Decided what?', Laura asked. 'What is going on Adrian?! Untie me right now!'

Adrian leaned over and kissed Mira on the cheek. 'That's when we decided to...'

'SURPRISE!!!!' Came a chorus of voices.

Lights came on full blast and people milled in from every corner of the house that Mira was held hostage in. Balloons were released from the ceiling, falling down all around, littering the room in multi colours, as silly string was sprayed and party poppers were popped all over. Louise came running out with Charlie, all their friends were grinning and laughing. Louise rushed over to untie Mira and lift her up in a hug.

'Happy Birthday!!!!' She trilled as she slapped Mira on the back. 'I really hope you're not mad at us? We just had to find out a way to give you that one very surprise birthday party you said you'd never ever have...'

Christopher Hitchens - To Save Or Not To Save?

Someone I know had recently posted a link on his facebook page about the perils of Christopher Hitchens, an atheist who publicly abhors God and His existence, and is now afflicted with cancer.

Many Christians debated on whether this atheist should be considered for prayers of any kind for the restoration of his health, or the salvation of his soul that he may make it to heaven if the cancer were to prevail.

Now, I am for sure no Mother Theresa but if Hitchens were to be my biggest enemy, what is it then that I am advised to do?

Let's say for example...as Christians, our soul desire was to please God and replicate His heart. Father God then presents us with a perfect opportunity that we may reflect His heart and instead out spring a multitude of issues. The voices within become loud enough that chants of 'crucify' become audible as some Christians reportedly pray for Hitchens to die.

Those that cried 'crucify' when Christ was being tried had every right to, because by law, He was breaking all the rules. But overcome by the law because of His own dispensation meant He was living under grace, the curse of the law had been broken. The liberty to judge had been overruled by grace.

This is the same grace that allows so many to walk free. It is the same grace that overlooks our transgressions and allows us an open window to get it right. It is the same open window that allows us to pray on behalf of those that are still blinded, whether they receive the prayers or reject it. Christ prayed 'forgive them Father for they know not what they do', how more so should we follow suit?

Having Christopher Hitchens brought to attention, (it's the first time I've ever heard about this guy in fact), I associated his situation to that of Saul of Tarsus. Saul was a well known atheist, such is Christopher Hitchens. Saul, even went so far as to kill Christians.

Ananias, a Christian, was commanded, by God, to pray for Saul of Tarsus and give to him a message with the intentions of salvation and healing, for his purpose was to spread the amazing gospel message of love and freedom. As Ananias prayed for the restoration of Saul's sight, he was healed. Ananias's intercessory prayer had taken effect.

Ananias: 'What was that dear Lord? Pray? Lord - You so funny! I thought I just heard you ask me to pray for Saul!! I am now, right now, roaring with laughter. Like get on my knees, open my mouth, and lift this man up to you?'

If God, in His own right, can choose to save Saul, who was more of a tyrant than Christopher Hitchens - Saul didn't write a book about how 'God Is Not Great' like Hitchens - he hacked and chopped and killed Mothers, Fathers, Sisters and Brothers of those who voiced that God was.

Some have said it is absurd to pray for others in the hope that God may intervene, and that it borders on insanity to think prayers can alter God's decision. I am fully assured that as Abraham rationing with God for the salvation of some in Soddom and Gomorrah made such a difference as did Moses' plea for the people of Israel, that in fact, God can change His mind, and intercessory prayer does prove to make a big difference.

Who are we to proclaim that this man should die in his sin, because he chose to speak against the very One who created him yet still unconditionally loves him? If the One can still love man and has a heart to save man, that being His soul purpose, what makes us think we are contrary to this unconditional show of affection?

'Well, he made his own bed, he should lie in it. The fool doesn't want to know about God anyway' some say. I wonder where I would be when others were telling me about Christ, yet prayed and preserved for my salvation when I repeatedly rejected Him?

We know that Saul became Paul, the chief sinner, the great apostle who wrote most of the new testimony under the inspiration of the spirit of God. If Saul were to be discredited, as some are discrediting this 20th century atheist, what hope is there for any of us? What hope is there for the family member who holds the same views as Hitchens?

'Cha man, leave da man dem fi die in im sin suh! Hell fire done bun 'im see!'

'Ah! Chale! I be dey chop and knock da foolish man's head with stone until he is chewing the ground he walks on oh!'

'Jeeves, please I asked for some tea, not a sermon. I need not hear you regurgitate news of some unfortunate man who simply chooses his own fate'.

This must be the voice of God we hear then right? Since we are so holy and righteous being made in His image, well off course that is what God would say. I mean, this is exactly what God would say.

Or is it?

Those Old Time TV Shows...

Just a random recollection of all those old time tv shows as I show my age - do you remember any of them?? These are in no particular order!


Sesame Street
Button Moon
Rainbow
Chock-a-Block
Pob
Smurfs
Grotbags
He-Man
Thunder Cats
My Little Pony
Charlie Brown
Postman Pat
Popeye
Garbage Patch Kids
Pink Panther
Inspector Gadget
Wurzle Gummidge
King Rolo
Super Gran
SuperTed
Mysterious Cities of Gold
Dungeons and Dragons
Heartbeat
Blue Peter
The Crystal Maze
Art Attack
'Allo 'Allo
Dallas
Dynasty
Miami Vice
Joanie Loves Chachi
My Two Dads
Blossom
Land of The Giants
Lost In Space
Degrassi Junior High
Wonder Woman
The Twilight Zone
Hart to Hart
Highway to Heaven
Kate And Allie
I'll Take Manhattan,
Cosby Show
Cagney And Lacey
CHIPs
Different Strokes
The Wonder Years
Punky Brewster,
Doogie Howser
Knight Rider
Carebears
The Flinstones
Happy Days
Golden Girls
Inspector Gadget
Cheers
Roseanne
Little House On The Prairie
The Waltons
Rugrats
Sister Sister
In Living Colour
Different World
Fraggle Rock
Sweet Valley High
Moesha
Hanging With Mr Cooper
Full House
The A Team
Beauty And The Beast
Knots Landing, LA Law
Manimal,
Miami Vice
Moonlighting
Mork and Mindy
St Elsewhere
My Two Dads
Alien Nation
Who's The Boss
Quantum Leap
V

TV at it's best!

Under Arrest

Jill stood quietly twiddling her thumbs, chewing gum.

The officer seated opposite her drummed his fingers on the table.

'An answer please?' He asked exasperated.

She blew a bubble and popped it with her finger. She winced as she wrestled to do. The hand cuffs left her limited.

'Listen sir' she responded, 'I'm not even the perpetrator trying to perpetrate and I don't have time for you to be perpetrating me so I am going to have to perpetrate you which means I need to leave now ok?'.

Jill got up out of her chair and made her way to the door. She turned the handle. It was locked.

'Listen Miss', The Officer was stern faced. 'You're not even making sense so I suggest you zip up, shut up, and sit down, ok?'.

Jill took a seat. She didn't want to aggravate anyone for no means necessary.

'Now, the Officer concluded.' You say you are not the...ahem'. He cleared his throat, 'The perpetrator, but we have evidence that places you right at the scene of the crime'.

Jill pouted her lips and pulled her fingers through her hair. In doing so a single loose braided extension came loose within her fingers.

'Oops' She smiled weakly, slightly embarrassed. 'TV and Magazines say all these vitamins are good for you. You know...Wash and Go, Loreal and all that... but looks like, its making me lose some here and there.' She quickly put the hair into her bag. 'Should have stuck to Kera Care', Jill muttered under her breath.

'Well' the Officer deliberated, 'It seems that at the scene of the crime there were evidences of hair extracts'. He paused. 'Well... many actually'. He held up several loose extensions identical to the one Jill had pulled out of her hair. 'Can you explain yourself?'.

Jill coughed, she was coy. 'Well I'm sure I'm not the only one to have a few hairs run loose here and there'...She eyed his balding head.

Jill smiled as the Officer spluttered.

'Look', She said raising her hands in defeat. 'What do you suggest?'.

The Officer smirked. 'I like people that cooperate'. He smoothed the remaining strands of hair over his head.

'Simply give back the lollipop, and you're free to go'.

In The Making

She was blackened, caked with dirt.

The residue surrounding her was hard to remove.

The metallic jaws crushed and crushed.

She cried out in pain.

The dirt, caked and blackened began to fall away.
Next the chisel chipped and chipped.

Her screams were relentless.

All day, all night.

Day after day. Night after night.

Week after week, month after month.
She howled in despair, winced at every turn.

But still the work continued.

At last she shone.

Rays of beauty fell upon the blackened dirt scattered on the floor.
In their disgrace they could only shine in the midst of her perfection.

She was a diamond brought out of the rough.

Settled in the midst of pure refined gold.