“We have deemed all these words necessary in order to explain that we have been traveling more slowly than was predicted, concision is not a definitive virtue, on occasion one loses out by talking too much, it is true, but how much has also been gained by saying more than was strictly necessary.” ― José Saramago, Author, 'The Stone Raft'

I started to say that I am speechless, but, that would not only be less than accurate, it would be very misleading. Today I come to you for the 2,500th time in this forum. It is being experienced here on this day, Thursday, February 9, 2017. I want to thank everyone who has read my stuff throughout this journey. Also, special thanks to those who have encouraged me in this effort, and, those who have offered their comments and insights regarding something I published. I couldn't really come up with anything profound to share, therefore, I decided to go with the following. It is a repeat of sorts since I've done it before, but, I think it appropriate today. Here is my very first blog, again, for the first time, as it were.

May 9, 2007

Well, it took me over sixty years to get here and as Yogi Berra reportedly said, "You sure can observe a lot just by watching". That observation stuff, however, can be both good and bad especially if you are determined not to revise any of it, that is, if that's possible since reflections and memories over time tend to take on a life of their own as they all become fused together. Some days it's "Wow, I can't believe the life I have enjoyed!", while another day might be, "Hey, I'm not sure I can make one more day!". This is how it works in the so-called real world and we have trouble because the roller coaster ride can start without notice at any time even right smack in the middle of one of those really great days and suddenly you find your heart pounding and breath interrupted by the crashing ride. Okay, maybe not quite that dramatic but with age, maturity, family, more family, relationships, issues, challenges, and chaos all around, it can be quite daunting.

However, I call this blog The View From Here because when it's all said and done, it's the way I see it. You most likely see it differently but that's what blogging is all about. We can speak from our viewpoint, our way of interpreting all the things we have to deal with, and in general, the viewfinder through which we see the world, and especially our world.

One final thought in this opening monologue: I know that without God as the foundation of my life through my identity with His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, there would be little hope in all the ups and downs encountered in this journey called life. ~ 

Yes. That's how it all began back in May of 2007. I'm not sure but it wouldn't surprise me if I'm listed somewhere as a mass murderer of keystrokes. During this nearly ten year run, I've sent plenty of them to the happy hunting grounds. I'm still evaluating options going forward but in the meantime, I will continue to continue. So far, I haven't heard the music stop, therefore, I've not yet scrambled to find an empty chair to sit in. I close today's edition by giving thanks to Almighty God with full assurance that any of His Word that I have shared along the way has the power to change a life. That I know to be true, by experience. Until next time, thanks again, and may God bless each one. Amen. ....More later. (for now)