As a radical left Antifa-socialist Yankee who voted for Gerald Ford, John Anderson, Bush 41, and Bob Dole this Paul Theroux-like Deep South trip for me was completely fascinating. Putting aside Redneck Rivera decadence there at the merging points of Orange Beach and Florabama…I pretty much loved every minute of the thirteen day journey.
I couldn’t quit thinking about Anthony Bourdain because there were Waffle Houses literally everywhere in the Deep South. I mean…everywhere. Everytime I saw that beautiful yellow Waffle House golden glow… I thought of Bourdain’s epic episode from that South Carolina Waffle House with super chef Sean Beck.
With the exception of the fact I think Trump is a vandal, a con artist, a trust fund brat, a rogue, and a hustler who really doesn’t give a shit about anyone but himself…..there’s quite a bit about the South I actually love.
The overall beauty of the South is majestic from east Texas or Arkansas all the way to Florida. The trees are simply amazing. For a person like me who loves trees and shrubs the South has no equal. That’s why I wanted to drive…to make sure we didn’t miss a thing.
In Alabama I have never seen so many pecan trees, live oaks, and magnolias. The sheer beauty of the flora blew me away every single day. Plus, the simple goodness of the people.
But beyond that…it was the Easter service which will never leave me for the rest of my life. Especially considering it was held in the same Seaside church Chris and Elaine were married in ten years ago. And on this Easter service there were Robert (5) and Aubrey (4) in the church with us. Yeah…I cried.
Truly a miracle.
I know how much the odds were stacked against me in the beginning for me even lasting to this point in my journey.
But faith is an amazing concept. Unfortunately, for so many of us…. we don’t even seriously attempt to harness our faith until we’re faced with a dire situation of some sort.
To say I’m in a very secure special place right now would be an understatement.
I feel blessed and the steps forward for me are the same. Wake up every morning and be kind while trying to be the best version of myself in dealing with others.
Be kind to others…that’s all. It’s not that tough of a thing to do on a daily basis.
‘He does not fear the sword. He is afraid of nothing. His soul is secure and at peace with the heavens and the universe.’
Eternal peace. Mike J