This week there was some added joy by being able to spend time with my ‘little’ brother Gary. He is three years younger than me, a foot taller, and quite a bit lighter. He came to town to visit our mom, so I got to visit with him too.
My brother and I are quite different, which is common in families. I’ve often referred to myself as a ‘great indoorsman’, and for sure he is a ‘great outdoorsman’! He has all the outdoor skills and desire. Hunting, fishing, trapping, and even doing his own taxidermy. His family enjoys these outdoor activities together with him.
It’s been a great surprise to him that I have developed an interest in photography and the outdoors. When he came to visit, we made a plan to go out to Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Reserve together. He had never been there. I enjoyed showing him around, introducing him to Burg, and observing the fishermen. Gary asked one fisherman on the pier, “Are you going to eat fish or chicken tonight?” The man laughed and said, “Reserve me a spot at Popeyes!”
I think he would have liked to have gone out in the boat and enjoyed some fishing, it was a beautiful day - although a bit windy. Unfortunately, we didn’t see a single alligator. But he had a great alligator story to tell me that made us both laugh.
I’m proud of my brother. He’s a Christian, hard worker, devoted husband and father. He is one of the most honest people I know and you can count on him to tell you what he really thinks if you ask him anything. I think that is an admirable quality.
As he heads back to South Texas, I wish I was able to spend some more time with him. It seems like there hasn’t been much of that since I left home at age 17 to go to college. It was a good visit, and I’m grateful for the time we had.
“These brief and insightful reflections express the wisdom and lived experience of a disciple of Jesus who has grieved deeply and lived a full life of joy. These devotionals express life’s hurts and delights as well as providing helpful and practical guidance for more fully leaning into God’s love for us. I love the primary and profound point John Dobbs drills home in so many ways: Jesus likes you!" - Dr. John Mark Hicks
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Y’all favor! Two great smilers :-))
Waiting on that alligator story here…
Enjoyed these thoughts John.