An Alphabet to Live By

Nineteen years ago and a continent away, a new alphabet was written. The twenty-six English letters became the starting point for twenty-six phrases that summarized important truths, truths important enough to be foundational stones for life building.

The place? The FMCA 3^rd-5^th grade classroom in Lima, Peru. The people? Miss Boley, Jared, Andrea, Jeff, Cailie, and Alex. The pattern? I'd write one phrase and an illustrative short story a week, with my students each getting a chance to pick one setting, and write one story as well. We memorized those twenty-six phrases as the year progressed, and though I don't know if my students remember any of them today, from time to time I think of a letter and its accompanying truth: D, Q, H, C....

Although it's not poetry, I decided a couple weeks ago to post that “Alphabet to Live By” on this blog. It is my prayer that a letter or two will resonate with each reader. The corresponding short stories are available on request.

All for God's glory!

Believe on Jesus!

Courage is not the absence of fear; it is doing what is right in spite of that fear.

Dependability is the essence of maturity.

Emmanuel: The Gift that Surpasses Description

Family is a treasure beyond measure.

Greatness begins with servanthood.

Holiness is simply the reflection of the Master in the servant.

Integrity wears the same face all the time.

Joy can sing at midnight because of Jesus.

Kindness springs from gentle strength.

Live for eternity; enjoy today.

Make time to pour your life into others.

Never forget what God has done; never quit what He has called you to do.

Open your mouth only after you have opened your ears.

Patriotism sacrifices today's comfort for tomorrow's freedom.

Quiet time with God each day is more important than water to a man lost in the desert.

Refuse to worry or complain; God is always the King of the universe.

Saturate your life with Scripture.

True love is a sacred trust from God.

Until all know, we must go.

Victory over death is a certain guarantee through Jesus.

Wisdom walks with God, and sees everything from His perspective.

eXcellence includes talent, but consists primarily of hard work.

You are precious to Jesus!

Zeal gives all for Christ's “Well Done;” because He loved, we love the Son.