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One Decision Different

Another path

By Rowan Finley Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago 4 min read
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Photo taken by Pixabay

Aaran opened his front door and saw that the sun had almost set completely. To the shadowy figure on his front step, he warmly welcomed him in, "Come on in. You can hang your coat here." The mysterious figure moved in like a phantom and hung his coat on the rack. He was wearing a black long sleeve shirt with black, ripped jeans. "Would you like tea or coffee?"

"Coffee is fine."

"Creamer and sugar?"

"Nah...black is fine."

"Okay...have a seat on the living room couch. Make yourself comfortable...please. I'll make some coffee really quick. I won't be long." Aaran skipped into the kitchen energetically and hopeful. He quickly made some coffee and hurried back to the living room to speak with his guest. "Here you go...I hope it's not too strong." He handed the dark figure the coffee and sat down on the edge of a seat, full of anticipation.

Taking a sip, "It tastes fine...thanks."

Somewhat nervously, Aaran began to speak. "It's somewhat difficult to imagine what you're like. God has given me small glimpses of you. In the visions, you seem pretty wild...like your lifestyle and all...I'm not gonna' lie."

The dark figure blinked, took another sip of coffee, and was unphased and seemingly unresponsive.

Aaran continued, "Let me share my story with you...if you'll listen for a few minutes, that is. When I was six, I remember playing in the shadows of three older siblings and two Christian parents. They seemed to have a lot of great qualities and I wanted to be like them. I knew what made them great was their faith in a higher power. I wanted to have that kind of faith too...that kind of hope, ya' know? I don't remember the exact day that I decided to make this decision. The date isn't very vivid, but I remember the day I was baptized. My dad actually was the one who baptized me. The symbolism was powerful, and I desired to grow in understanding of God. It was exciting actually. Little did I know how much of a foundation that was being established in my heart for my teenage and early adult years. The intense theme of grace runs so deep throughout my life; it is overwhelming to dwell on his grace for me."

Aaran paused and reached over to the coffee table and lit a candle. He smiled as he watched the flame for a second and then continued his story. "As a fifteen-year-old, I started struggling with internet pornography and lust. It almost destroyed my mind and emotions. Just like God rescued the Israelites from slavery, so he also rescued me multiple times from the bondage of lust. He also rescued me from idol worship. I used to bow down to the idol of my 'future.' Though many people praised me for my forward-thinking and goals for marriage, parenthood, career options, and retirement, it was all disguised as an idol. Spending more time thinking about the future instead of the present, precious moments with God hurt his heart. He has helped me grow in this area a lot. Now, as a married adult for several years, I can look back and say how grateful I am to be a follower of Jesus. Some terrifying occurrences have happened in the last few years. I know without faith by my side, as a companion in my heart, I know I would not be here."

Aaran looked up at the shadowy figure, but didn't see much response, but he continued anyway. "So...why do I tell you all this? Because when I see you, I cannot help but see the pain behind the dark circles under your eyes. I can feel your dissatisfaction in life. The drugs, alcohol, and sex you're pursuing aren't going to satisfy you in the long run. Only faith can fill your void. You're loved...you're so prized and loved. The creator wants to be your best friend, most reassuring comforter, and greatest physician. He is capable of redeeming your past in miraculous ways. Think about it, but I know without a doubt that he won't disappoint you. I'm not trying to see him because he's already given himself completely to you, if you want him. Will you take his hand and walk with him, so to speak?"

The candle crackled and a tiny spark flew onto the coffee table, but it went out quickly. Aaran's eyes flickered, and he continued speaking. "If you choose to walk with him, let me caution you...life is gonna' get a lot more challenging. But, he promises to never leave you through everything. He will strengthen you through every season of life. If you ever have questions in the future, or just wanna' talk, let me know. I'd love going out for some nice black coffee sometime if you'd like. And next time you talk more... okay?"

In a flash, the phantom figure was gone. The coffee mug was still full, but the coffee was cold now. Aaran picked up the coffee mug and walked over to the coat rack and wasn't surprised when he didn't see a coat there accept his own yellow jacket. He smiled and looked back at the candle which was burning stronger than ever it seemed. He felt grateful, satisfied and warm.

Mystery
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About the Creator

Rowan Finley

Father. Academic Advisor. Musician. Writer. Aspiring licensed mental health counselor. My real name is Jesse Balogh.

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