11/06/2025
Many years ago, while in prison and around Christmas time, after suffering terrible loss and tragedy myself, recently that same year. I remember being pretty downtrodden and depressed, and I picked up this little , modest-looking book, hoping to take my mind off not only where I was, but the horrible shame and guilt I felt for getting myself there and letting EVERYONE down again.
The name of the book was - The Christmas Box, by Richard Paul Evans.
Not expecting anything but a brief escape or story, what I read not only brought me to tears, but gave me hope to stay alive another night that cold lonely, dark Christmas.
I had to stay in my cell to read the book, because I was not going to let all the "tough guys" on the tier - see my tears!!
As I finished the book a short couple hours later. I immediately grabbed a pen and paper and wrote this man Richard. Thanking him for literally saving my life, but helping me shed tears that would never have come from me then or ever. In the letter, I expressed I would love to meet him some day and shake his hand......
That man stands between my wife and I in the picture below. Not only have I shook his hand, but I call him my friend. I have been to his retreat, one of the most sacred experiences of my life. And I have broke bread and shared laughs with this man. Who's magical words saved me with hope, so many years ago.
Over the years I have read many of his books. Sometimes in one sitting! Everything he writes is beyond the best!!
Thanks again Rick! (That's what his friends call him). And thanks to his amazing and wonderful assistant and friend Diane Glad as well!
I look forward more and more to Christmas time now. But mostly for the spirit of love and hope, that all of us can share when we try.
