"Life Choices And Consequences"

Blogging Friends.... Uncharted waters. That is what it feels like I have been swimming in this year as a writer, an artist who paints pictures with words. Why? Because I lack a genre. Question. Am I a children's book writer? Answer? No.... That was so 2014. And now I do not know who the hell I am. For these are uncharted waters that I'm swimming in. See, I've somehow always known who I am as a writer, an artist who paints pictures with words. Throughout the course of my Life, I have composed poetry.... I've tried my hand as a "journalist" and written "columns".... I have created children's stories.... During all three above journeys, I've experimented and I thought--well I was so sure--that I knew exactly who I was a writer, an artist who paints pictures with words. Especially throughout 2014. But how wrong was I. Because a year ago last Wednesday, I posted what would turn out to be one of my final fictional children's book stories. Ever. And soon I was headed toward those uncharted waters. I have spent 2015 throwing the word "genre" away. I've written several fictional stories which came directly from my heart and soul. {Even more than last year!! I actually have at least twain fictional stories "in the can" for 2016!! Thus far!!} I have killed off characters seemingly left and right. {Do I have a reputation yet?! I am going for the whole Joss Whedon influence.... Just kidding!!} And somewhere along the way? I was left with a cosmic choice. Either I drown in these uncharted waters.... Or I take up my board and learn how to surf its wild, wild, wild waves!! I chose option number two!! And somewhere along the way? I still may not know who I am. But somewhere along the way? I figured out in 2015 alone exactly what it is that I want to write.... Heartfelt fictional stories. {But not Hallmark movie-like scripts!!} Fictional stories that reach in and touch Readers' deepest, most heartfelt thoughts/feelings/emotions. I think I'm doing it.... Love you later.

PS. I was hoping to post this story last Wednesday.... But editing can take a while sometimes.

Interesting. That one four-syllable word {Uh.... Or three syllable word, depending on how you say it!!} works wonders in describing this story. "Interesting". First off, it sort of expresses my own personal opinions, thoughts, feelings and emotions on today's current shootings that we have all seen happen way too frequently lately. This story was written sometime during last Summer. Now.... I am not going to sit here and express my opinions on gun rights or stricter gun laws. That is a touchy issue for many which has seemingly divided America in half. And this little Blog of mine is neither the time, nor the place, to discuss it!! Thank-you very much!!

This is an entirely fictional story and was not ripped from any real-Life news headlines!!

Inspiration. As a writer, an artist who paints pictures with words, I must seek and find it wherever I can. Apparently? My inspiration comes from Bruce Springsteen's brilliant storytelling and poetic song lyrics!! Remember September's fictional 9-11 book that I wrote? It was inspired by Bruce's song, "Into The Fire" from "The Rising"!! Well.... Bruce has done it again!! Because this particular story was inspired by his song, "Johnny 99" from "Nebraska"!! I. Freakin'. Love. That. Song. And, although I went to great lengths in an effort to avoid stealing anything from "Johnny 99"? Well.... It cracks me up just how much of Bruce's storytelling was infused into my fictional book, anyway!! Because, seriously. I even named my murderer character Ralph!! Read this story. Then listen to "Johnny 99". Or better yet.... Listen to "Johnny 99" first!! Then read my story. I love ya, Bruce!!

"Life Choices And Consequences"

          

Perspective. It varies greatly depending on person to person. Because everybody who has a mind and an opinion can certainly possess their own viewpoint!! Conservative. Liberal. Christian. Secular. And everybody is entitled to their own opinions. For it's an American right!! Correct? Yet--sadly--nobody in this nation {Or world, for that matter} seemingly agrees to disagree anymore. Because it is always "my way or the highway". Sadly, nobody in this nation {Or world, for that matter} possesses an open-minded, nonjudgmental, unprejudiced perspective anymore.

Those were the exact words of psychology Professor Van Zandt--who is middle-aged--as he spoke to approximately five-hundred college-aged students on a dark, eerie, foggy Saturday morning in November.

"Perspective," he said, "If you kids were to look up that word in an Oxford dictionary Online, one definition would be this.... 'A particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view'. Now. I am going to share with you an unfortunate, tragic, sad, true story about perspective. From everybody's diverse points of view."

All ears--and eyes--were on Professor Van Zandt. For he had definitely captivated his students' undivided attention.

"It occurred exactly one decade ago on this very date," began Professor Van Zandt, "November 14th, 2005...."

Christmas. Nearly everybody celebrates that well-known holiday season!! Of course, there are always exceptions. Some people celebrate Hanukkah, Winter Solstice or Kwanzaa, instead!! And that is absolutely acceptable!! But probably the vast majority of people worldwide still celebrate Christmas!! Local radio stations play nonstop seasonal music!! Santa Claus enters malls everywhere!! People decorate their real--or artificial--Christmas trees!! Some still send out seasonal cards through snail mail and type out holiday newsletters!! Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ!! It is a commercialized, consumer-oriented holiday season, so there are seemingly countless sales which occur literally everywhere!! That being mentioned? Even with the Internet readily available, people still enjoy driving toward shopping malls--to purchase Christmas gifts--for their loved ones!!

The holiday season seemingly occurs earlier and earlier every single year!! It used to be that Black Friday sales after Thanksgiving kicked off Christmastime!! This is not the case, anymore!! So on November 14th, 2005, twain thirty-one year old best friends named "Henry" and "Jacob"--who have known each other ever since kindergarten--were doing a little early Christmas shopping at their local shopping mall!! As to be expected, seasonal music was blasting in every single store that they set foot in!! The shopping mall even already decorated it with an enormously-sized artificial Christmas tree!! Santa Claus also sat on his tall, red, throne of a chair, patiently awaiting little children!!

"Look at this autographed photograph of Dory from Finding Nemo!!" said Jacob.

"Really...." teased Henry, with a smirk written on his face, "Did Dory herself sign it....?"

Jacob laughed.

"Ha, ha, ha...." he said, "No, Ellen DeGeneres autographed it!! And my girlfriend, Rosie, is a cosmic fanatic of hers!! Remember? She watches Ellen DeGeneres' talk show every single day!! So, naturally, Rosie loves Dory in Finding Nemo, as well!! What do you think? Should I purchase it for Rosie? Or not?"

"Rosetta will love it...." began Henry, "....But you might want to check out the picture's price tag before making your decision, dude!!"

It was a hefty seven-hundred dollars!!

"Oh my!!" exclaimed Jacob, "I will simply find something less expensive for Rosie!!"

"You can call me sappy," said Henry, "Because I do not care!! But I love it when the mall is decorated for Christmas, man!! It puts me in a holiday mood!!"

"I can't but agree.... 'Sappy'!!" said Jacob, with a smile written on his face, "I enjoy the shopping mall's Christmas decorations, as well!! They are oh-so festive this time of year!!"

Meanwhile, Henry and Jacob searched store, after store, after store, after store for the "perfect" gifts.... But alas, to no avail.

Jacob sighed.

"I haven't a clue what to purchase Rosie," he said, as they aimlessly wandered the shopping mall together.

"Well, it is not even Thanksgiving yet," encouraged Henry, "Right? You have lots of time, dude!! Don't worry about it. Hakuna matata, man!!"

"You do not understand!!" said Jacob, "Rosie and I are nearing the one year mark of when we participated in our first date together!! So I must find something doubly special for her!!"

"You know what, dude?" said Henry, "I have an idea for the perfect Christmas present to give Rosetta!!"

"Do tell," said Jacob.

"A ring!!" said Henry, "You know....? An engagement ring? Because--wow--you two lovebirds have been dating for one year now?! Holy smokes.... Where does the time escape to?! Outer space?! And I obviously know that you two love each other!! Without a single doubt in my mind!! Maybe you should finally get up the nerve to propose, man? Huh? Overcome your fear of rejection? Because you already know that Rosetta will say 'yes'!! Am I right? You can even surprise Rosetta on Christmas Day--"

Just then--in the crowded mall--a tan-skinned, black-haired, young man suddenly leapt out of seemingly nowhere, pulled his gun's trigger, and shot Henry!! Time instantaneously stood still. Henry screamed like a little girl, as he was obviously feeling agonizing pain. Red blood freely gushed through the bullet hole which was located in his chest. As resulted? Henry's blood instantaneously seeped through his white-colored Superman t-shirt. He collapsed to the cold, germ-infested, tiled floor. And Henry's body fell hard with a resounding thud. Meanwhile, the unidentified shooter pulled his gun's trigger several more times, while shots hauntingly echoed against walls. As resulted? He shot--and murdered--five more unsuspecting shoppers.

"Henry!!" yelled Jacob, "Oh my.... Henry!!"

Instinctively? Jacob dropped to both knees and--with one arm--he supported his best friend's heavy head. Henry simply lie there, weeping. He also groaned, as his body obviously felt searing pain. Henry did not speak. He repeatedly clutched one now-bloody hand to his chest, where the bullet was located. Instinctively? With his free hand, Jacob dialed 9-1-1 on Henry's cellular phone, as he did not own any.

"Hello?" said the 9-1-1 dispatcher, "This is Annemarie. How may I help you?"

"Hello ma'am!!" said a frantic Jacob, "My best friend has been shot in cold blood--"

Just then, Henry nodded off.

"No, no, no, no, no!!" yelled Jacob, with panic rising in his voice, as he frantically slapped Henry's cheeks, "Do not fall asleep!! Henry!! Stay awake!! Henry!! Don't you dare fall asleep--"

"Where is Henry's bullet--or bullets--located?" Annemarie calmly interrupted.

"In his chest, above the heart--" answered Jacob.

Just then, Henry began to drift off into a deep, deep, deep sleep.

"Oh, no, no, no, no!!" yelled Jacob, as his own heart pounded hard, "Do not die on me!! Henry!! Do please stay with me!!"

"Okay," said Annemarie, "Calm down, sir. Where are you? I just need an address and our emergency crew will be on the way shortly."

"We are at Mall 38," began Jacob, "On 7575 S.E. Harrison Street. We are located right outside Barnes & Noble. Do you need a zip code?"

"No," Annemarie confidently answered, "We can find Mall 38!!"

"Do please hurry!!" said a still-panicked Jacob, "I am no doctor, but it appears that Henry is going into shock!!"

Annemarie hung up her telephone. By then, Henry's eyes were closed tight and he was anything but responsive.

"Henry!!" yelled Jacob, with a sense of urgency in his voice, "Awaken!! You will not die like this!! Henry!! Wake.... Up!! The paramedics will be here shortly, I promise!! Henry!! We still have so much Life left to enjoy!! Can you hear me?! We still have countless adventures to enjoy!! Can you hear me?! We still have so many plans!! Can you hear me?! We were planning to travel together and hike up Mt. Everest on New Year's Day!! Remember?! Can you hear me?! We have girlfriends to romance and--hopefully--wed!! Can you hear me?! We were going to be the best men at each other's weddings!! Can you hear me?! We were even going to raise our future children together!! Can you hear me?! Please do not die!! Can you hear me?!"

"You're my irreplaceable best friend....!!" continued Jacob, as wet, hot tears streamed down his face, "You cannot die....!! Remember all of the positive, negative, wild memories that we have created together....? Can you hear me....?! We only attended school together from kindergarten to college, for Heaven's sake....!! Can you hear me....?! Henry....!! I will forever remember the first time we met.... I stole your cookies in kindergarten--which made you angry at me!!--but we have surprisingly remained best friends ever since....!! Henry....!! Can you hear me....?! Henry....!! You were the drummer with a thunderous rhythm in our small, experimental, three-man, basement/garage rock and roll band during high school....!! Remember....?! Can you hear me....?! We smoked our first--and last--cigarettes together.... Which, was your insane idea....!! Can you hear me....?! We even partied a bit during our college years--which was also your insane idea--me, I simply came along for the wild, wild, wild ride....!! Have you any clue how many hangovers I helped snap my best friend out of....?! Henry....!! Can you hear me?! Can you hear me?! Can you hear me?! Can you hear me?! Can you hear me?!"

But Jacob's emotional, heart-pounding, urgent, frantic, blood-pressure-rising, adrenaline-producing panic was--tragically--all for naught. Because by the time ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars arrived? Henry was dead. He passed away in Jacob's very arms. And, although five other victims obviously died, there were--miraculously--four survivors!! Police did indeed catch the murderer {Who swiftly became nationally-known as eighteen-year old Ralph} and successfully arrested him. He committed his crime alone.

Throughout the course of time, Ralph was scheduled for several different trials in court. Which Jacob faithfully attended!!

Perspective. It varies greatly depending on person to person. There was the perspective of bitterness and unforgiveness from Jacob.

"Ralph murdered my best friend in cold blood!!" Jacob abruptly stood up and angrily said during a trial, "Henry is dead. I will never see him again. Henry is gone. I will never create new, unforgettable memories with him ever again. Because Henry is not coming back. And to worsen matters? Ralph also murdered five more innocent people in cold blood!! He even deliberately tried to kill ten unsuspecting shoppers!! I demand justice!! I desire an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth!! Ralph deserves the death penalty!! Execute him!! Execute him!! Execute him!! Execute him!! Execute him!! Now!!"

Ralph shamefully hung his head.

"Calm down, sir!!" ordered a middle-aged, silver-haired, deep-voiced Judge Morrison.

"Ralph," questioned Judge Morrison, "Why did you decide to open fire inside Mall 38? What, exactly, were your reasons, excuses and perspective for committing this murder, son?"

"My 'father'--I will just call him 'Joe'--used to beat me physically as a kid growing up," Ralph eventually answered with bitterness in his voice, "He always did it while Mom worked hard to bring our money home. 'Joe' was such a deadbeat. He never even worked one day in my whole Life. See, the beatings were done secretly, behind closed doors. Mom never, ever knew--because I would not even dare tell her--I always lied that the constant bruises on my body were from being clumsy. But Judge Morrison, I am no klutz!! 'Joe' also verbally and emotionally abused me. He said every second of every single waking day that I am a cosmic failure whose worthless Life will never amount to anything."

Ralph paused.

"Well, he was right. I guess I am a cosmic failure whose worthless Life will never amount to anything...." Ralph said, as he blinked back wet, hot tears.

"My 'father' was always drunk when he physically, verbally and emotionally abused me," continued Ralph, "Some daddy dearest, huh? Then, during my teenage years, 'Joe' drove away and never--ever--came back home. Now. I could have easily said 'good riddance' to 'Joe'. However. His abandonment of our little family broke Mom's poor heart into a billion pieces. And who was there for her? Me!! Not 'Joe'. I was there for Mom. I had to be strong and brave. For Mom's emotional sake. I had to provide comfort and pick up the pieces of her broken heart. But let me ask you something, Judge Morrison. Who was going to pick up the broken pieces of my heart?! Huh?! So unresolved anger and resentment toward the world brewed in my poor, shattered heart. Judge Morrison, I am not saying that this sad, depressing, true story makes me an innocent guy. I definitely deserve punishment for what I've done!! Mom raised me better than to become a murderer. Nonetheless. I could not do a damn thing about these negative thoughts, feelings and emotions which are always eating away at me. Because I just don't know how!! So, yeah, I bought the gun. Then, yes, I planned to take my anger and resentment out in a massacre at Mall 38. So there you go. Judge Morrison.... My reasons, excuses and perspective. To everybody who is sitting in this courtroom.... That was my whole Life story in a nutshell."

Perspective. It varies greatly depending on person to person. There was the perspective of grace, compassion, and empathy toward Ralph that suddenly washed over the entire courtroom. For after his truthful story? There was not a dry eye in the courtroom!! Ralph's mother, Angelina--overcome by emotion--of course wept uncontrollably. Jacob wiped away wet, hot tears. Even professional, firm, no-nonsense Judge Morrison became choked up!!

"Wow...." Jacob whispered to himself, "All excuses set aside--because the murder that Ralph committed was obviously wrong--he has certainly lived a hard, cruel, unfair Life!!"

Perspective. It varies greatly depending on person to person. There was even the perspective of forgiveness toward Ralph from Jacob. For after his truthful story? Any anger that Jacob initially felt was suddenly blown away.

"Judge Morrison?" asked Jacob, "May I say something?"

"Yes," answered Judge Morrison, "Go right ahead, son."

Jacob bravely looked straight at Ralph. Their eyes met each other's.

"Ralph," said Jacob, "You expressed your sad, depressing, truthful story. Now it is my turn. You expressed your perspective and point of view. Now it is my turn."

Jacob paused.

 "Ralph...." Jacob slowly continued, as wet, hot tears streamed down his cheeks, "When you opened fire inside Mall 38.... My best friend and 'blood brother' was shot.... When your gun's bullet pierced through Henry's heart.... He was then abruptly taken from me.... When you proceeded in your massacre.... All of our hopes, dreams and plans were--literally--shot down.... And now....? All I am left with is an entire Lifetime of memories...."

Ralph looked down at his handcuffed wrists. He appeared sincerely ashamed and regretful for the murder that had been committed.

"Ralph...." Jacob slowly finished, as he wiped away wet, hot tears, "At first, I was livid at what you had done, and rightfully so.... But now that I have heard your truthful story.... I forgive you!! I do mean that."

"Wait. What?!" said a shocked Ralph, as he blinked back wet, hot tears, "You forgive.... Me?"

"Yes," Jacob confidently replied, "I do."

Crime always has its consequences. Whether it be incarceration. Community service. Or the death penalty. Either way, crime always has its consequences.

"Everyone is faced with choices in Life, son," Judge Morrison told Ralph, "Whether they be good decisions. Or bad. Ralph.... Your father may have both physically and verbally abused you. Ralph.... Your father may have abandoned you and your mother. Ralph.... You may have battled some cosmic, negative, thoughts, feelings and emotions. However. You could have asked for professional help with sorting through these cosmic, negative, thoughts, feelings and emotions. Because there are some very good psychiatrists available!! But you did not ask for professional help. Correct?"

Ralph regretfully nodded his head "yes".

"Well, son, that was a choice that you made. Correct?"

Ralph regretfully nodded his head "yes".

"Instead, you bought that gun. Correct?"

Ralph regretfully nodded his head "yes".

"That was a choice that you made. Correct?"

Ralph regretfully nodded his head "yes".

"Because you certainly did not have to buy that weapon!! Correct?"

Ralph regretfully nodded his head "yes".

"Then you took out all of your anger and resentment toward Life in a massacre at Mall 38. Correct?"

Ralph regretfully nodded his head "yes".

"That was a choice which you made. Because everyone is given bad decisions in Life. And many--if not most--of which bring about consequences. So Ralph? I hereby sentence you to death."

Perspective. It varies greatly depending on person to person. There was the perspective of a Mother's unyielding love which came from Ralph's Mom, Angelina.
 

"No, no, no, no, no!!" she screamed, as wet, hot tears streamed down her face, "Give my son a second chance!! Please!! Please!! Please!! Have you no mercy?! Judge Morrison.... Do you not believe in the concept that people change?! Huh?! Please do not take my son's Life this way!!"

"Calm down, Mom," Ralph flatly said, "Do not waste your energy on me!! I am better off dead."

"Nooooo!!" screamed an inconsolable, heartbroken Angelina, "Nooooo!!"

Angelina created such a disruption, that twain police guards were forced to carry her out of that courtroom. She screamed, sobbed and protested the entire way.

Ralph shamefully looked down at his handcuffed wrists.
   

On December 14th--precisely one month after Ralph opened fire inside Mall 38--the sad, dark day of his execution arrived.

"Do you have any last words before your death penalty?" asked Policewoman Heather.

"Um.... Can you report this back?" asked Ralph, "Because I want everybody--especially Mom--whose Lives were forever affected by my bad choices to hear it!!"

"It is not customary," said Policewoman Heather, "But I will make an exception just for you."

"Uh.... Thanks...." said Ralph, as wet, hot tears streamed down his face, "Here are my last words: Policewoman Heather, if you can kill a guy for the negative thoughts, feelings and emotions that are always in his head....? I am sorry.... To everybody.... I am sincerely sorry for all of the emotional, mental, and physical pain that my actions have caused.... Judge Morrison is right.... I should have sought psychiatric help.... But I did not.... And Mom....? I am sorry for letting you down.... Please do not ever stop loving me....!! I am so sorry for being a disappointment to you.... Alright, Policewoman Heather.... Those are my last words...."

And then--just like that--Ralph was executed.

On New Year's Day {In loving memory of Henry!!} Jacob and Rosetta hiked Mt. Everest together!! Once they reached the top, he finally proposed to his lover with a beautiful, heart-shaped, garnet ring.... Which is her birthstone!! As to be expected? Rosetta accepted Jacob's proposal!!

"Perspectives and viewpoints," said Professor Van Zandt, "From Ralph's sad, depressing, true story. Or Jacob's anger, which eventually transformed into forgiveness. From Judge Morrison's wise speech about Life choices and consequences. Or Angelina's heartbreaking plead for her son's second chance. Kids, I understand this unfortunate, tragic, sad, true story about these such differing perspectives firsthand.... Because I am 'Jacob'...."

"There's No Place Like Home"

Blogging Friends.... This fictional story is loosely based on a "book" that I wrote when I was, like, fifteen years old. {Holy smokes.... That was--quite literally--half my Life ago!! From about fifteen to thirty-one....} But several changes were made, as usual!! I have no idea what mood I was in emotionally and mentally when I wrote this version many months ago.... Or what feelings I sorted through with its message. Ah, such is the Life of an artist!! Love you later.

Note. In this fictional story, Hollywood actor Tom Hanks ingests some unhealthy food. Yes, I do know he has diabetes. But when I wrote that part in, like, 1999, he had not yet been diagnosed!! It's simply a fictional story....

Is there anybody alive out there?! --Bruce Springsteen

Dear Blogging Friends, Readers and Followers.... As much as I create these monthly fictional stories to feed my love of writing, I live for your comments!! So please.... Read this story, enjoy it and leave some positive comments!! I would appreciate them!!

"There's No Place Like Home"

Life. Occasionally, it can present you with once-in-a-blue-moon opportunities. Which are definitely milestone memory-creating, journal entry, photography-worthy chances!! Like watching your very favorite baseball team compete against their longtime rivals in seats so close to the field that you're located right above a dugout, for example. Life. Occasionally, it can even present you with once-in-a-blue-moon celebrity encounters. Which are definitely unexpected milestone memory-creating, autograph-seeking, journal entry-worthy, selfie-snapping, conversation-starting chances!! But what would make it even more incredible? When that specific celebrity is one of your very favorite Hollywood actors, heroes and "old guy" crushes!! This happened to Evangeline, a sixteen-year old aspiring missionary.

One Summer--for an incredible first huge adventure after earning her driver's license--she drove over 2,000 miles away from home {Clear across America} in her old 1970's baby blue-painted Ford pickup truck. She was all alone. From New Jersey to California, Evangeline even visited and toured several different states during this huge adventure!! Because it was also a cross-country road trip, of course!! She even shared her Christian faith with fellow tourists along the way!! Some even accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior!! Others--however--turned away the offer with bitter, cold hearts.

Evangeline's ultimate destination? Hollywood, California!! However. As a young, rebellious, headstrong teenager? Evangeline is running, running, running fast. Away from Life. As she has longed so badly to prove herself and live independently on her own? Evangeline is running, running, running fast. Away from home. As she wants more than anything to be a missionary? Evangeline is running, running, running fast. Toward God's calling. And, as she secretly packed thousands of hard-earned dollars in cash for certain living expenses such as food, clothing, hotel stays and gasoline? Evangeline does not have any plans to ever return home.

In Hollywood, you can witness several celebrity sightings. Evangeline had not even been there for one week when she saw Harrison Ford!! He was holding hands with his wife, Calista Flockhart.

Harrison Ford?! thought Evangeline, Oh my gosh!! That.... That.... That.... That is Harrison Ford!! Aw, what a cute couple he and Calista Flockhart are!! As marriages in Hollywood seldom ever last, I hope their love for each other always stays strong!! You know.... Until death do them apart? I loved Harry in all four of the Indiana Jones films!! Especially.... Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull!! Because 'old guys' rule!! Oh yeah. And how can I forget such an incredibly lovable 'scoundrel' like Han Solo from the Star Wars films?! Swoon!!

Evangeline had not even been in Hollywood for one week when she observed Robert Downey Jr.!! He was pushing his nearly one-year old daughter, Avri, in her stroller {Side-by-side with Susan Downey, of course!!} who held their three-year old son, Exton's, hand.

Robert Downey Jr.?! thought Evangeline, Oh my gosh!! It.... It.... It.... It is Robert Downey Jr.!! I loved him in Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows!! I mean, how can you not resist seeing Rob dressed up in drag?! And I just love him as Tony Stark/Iron Man!! Boy, do I like 'schmucks in transition'!! Han Solo.... Tony Stark.... Huh. What a sweet little family Rob and Susan have created together!! Awww!! Exton and Avri are so freakin' adorable!! I just want to cuddle them!! No.... I will hold myself back. I'll feel like a creepy stalker if I walk up to the Downeys and interact with their children!!

Evangeline had not even been in Hollywood for one week when she spied Dick Van Dyke!! Carrying large-sized bags and packages, he was partaking in some shopping.

Dick Van Dyke?! thought Evangeline, Oh my gosh!! That.... That.... That.... That is Dick Van Dyke!! I loved him as Bert in Mary Poppins!! But I remember crushing on Dick Van Dyke when I watched him play Dr. Mark Sloan in Diagnosis Murder!! Gee.... I was just a kid when we started watching Diagnosis Murder!! I wonder what Dick Van Dyke bought?

Suddenly, Evangeline felt her stomach growl. So she drove toward a nearby McDonald's for some quick lunch. And Evangeline had not even been in Hollywood for one week before actually meeting Tom Hanks face-to-face!! He was sitting inside that very McDonald's restaurant {All by himself} sipping on a large Coca-Cola and awaiting for his food to arrive. Evangeline immediately felt starstruck.

Tom Hanks?! thought Evangeline before even ordering her lunch, Oh. My. Gosh!! Is that.... That.... That... Is that Tom Hanks?! I loved him as Woody in Toy Story, Toy Story 2 and Toy Story 3!! I actually grew up with the first film!! Chuck Noland in Cast Away.... Ah, we are such Kindred Spirits!! Sam Baldwin in Sleepless In Seattle.... Break. My. Heart!! Walt Disney in Saving Mr. Banks.... One word. 'Wow'!! Joe Fox in You've Got Mail.... That is yet another 'schmuck'-like character who I love!! Huh....

But naturally, Evangeline did not believe her eyes.

Oh, no, no, no, she thought, That is not Tom Hanks!! Sitting inside a McDonald's restaurant of all places?! Oh, no, no, no. It cannot be Tom Hanks!!

Evangeline shook her head.

Yet, as she felt an incredible mixture of curiosity and heart-pounding nervousness, Evangeline stepped a little closer.

Brunette/silver hair.... Evangeline thought, Blue/grey-colored eyes.... Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!! It.... It.... It.... It is Tom Hanks!!

"Go and talk to him," Evangeline felt God whisper.

No way!! she mentally argued, That is Tom Hanks, for Heaven's sake!! He's a huge, rich, famous movie star!! I am not going to talk to him!!
  

But God was insistent.

"Go on, child," He encouraged Evangeline, "Talk to him. Do not be shy."

Oh, alright.... Evangeline timidly thought, I will talk to Tom Hanks....
  

She could almost feel God smile at her in approval.

So.... Still feeling starstruck, Evangeline gathered her courage--and boldness--to approach Tom Hanks.

God.... she thought, You're expecting me to share my faith with Tom Hanks, aren't You?

But Evangeline did not feel God's answer back.

Still experiencing hunger pangs while they shot through her stomach, she used that excuse as an ingenuous way to procrastinate. Evangeline ordered some breaded, crispy chicken strips, creamy ranch dressing, greasy, salty French fries, and a medium Sprite.

Then {While half reluctantly and half obediently} Evangeline walked up to Tom Hanks.

"Uh.... Hi.... Um...." was all she could barely whisper, "Tom Hanks?"

He looked up at Evangeline and smiled warmly.

"Hi there," said Tom Hanks, "Yes. I am Tom Hanks!! Well, last time I checked, anyway!! But you never know with all of the different characters that I play as an actor!!"

"I.... Uh...." said Evangeline, "I am such a huge fanatic of your acting!! I loved you as Chuck Noland in Cast Away!! I watched it about two years ago!! Somebody who I knew thought that Cast Away was the most boring film she had ever seen. Oh, but I respectfully disagree!! It must have been very challenging to play the only character on that deserted island!! Well, aside from good 'ol Wilson, of course!! Chuck Noland's story about being a time-obsessed workaholic also spoke to my heart and soul on an incredibly profound Life changing level, because.... Well.... That was me...."

Oh my gosh, thought Evangeline, I am babbling on and on and on!! I do that when I'm extremely nervous!! My heart is pounding. I have shaky hands. That is a sure indicator that I am very, very, very nervous!! I bet poor Tom Hanks is feeling really bored with me right now!!

But he just smiled at Evangeline.

"I am glad that you could learn a Life lesson after seeing Cast Away!!" said Tom Hanks, "Wow.... My film career is actually touching Lives?! That makes me feel so warm inside!!"

Tom Hanks is not bored with me because I am babbling on and on and on?! thought Evangeline, Wow.... Everybody else would be bored out of their minds real quick....

"What is your name, sweetheart?" asked Tom Hanks.

"Evangeline," she answered.

"Ah, that is a beautiful name!!" said Tom Hanks, "Evangeline. Can I call you Evie for short?"

"Sure!!" said Evangeline.

Tom Hanks can call me whatever he wants!! thought Evangeline, I will not mind!!

"You can sit down with me...." he offered.

Wait. What?! thought Evangeline, I must be dreaming!! Tom Hanks just told me to sit down with him!! Tom Hanks!! Somebody pinch me!! Please!!

"....If you want to," he finished.

So sit down--across the table from Tom Hanks--Evangeline did!!

"I also love you in the Toy Story films!!" she continued, "Ah, Woody!! You just have to love him!! Because underneath his soft, plush body and cotton fluff, he has a huge heart!!"

"I could not have phrased that better, Evie!!" said Tom Hanks, "And I'm the guy who plays Woody!!"

Hey, my heart is no longer pounding!! thought Evangeline, I am not babbling on and on and on anymore!! My hands are no longer shaking!! I must not be so nervous anymore!! Now would be a good time to share my faith with Tom Hanks!! Right?!

But Evangeline kept talking about Tom Hanks' films.

"I recently saw Saving Mr. Banks in the movie theaters," she continued, "Now, that is such a good film!! You were so convincing while playing Walt Disney!! Honestly? I think that the Academy should have given you multiple Oscar awards for that role alone!! I mean it!! What is wrong with the Academy?! I mean, come on!! And the story in Saving Mr. Banks was so compelling, too!! Sad. Heartbreaking. But so compelling!! You know what? I had to urinate the very second Saving Mr. Banks started, but I could not leave!! Because I was afraid I'd miss something important!! I was that engrossed in it!!"

Really, Evangeline?! she thought, as her heart pounded hard, Did you seriously just tell Tom Hanks--of all people--that story?! Really?! Oh, I am so embarrassed!!

But Tom Hanks simply laughed!!

"Oh!!" he exclaimed "Evie, you held it throughout the entire film?! Wow!! You must be quite the camel!!"

Evangeline laughed.

"Yes, that is what everybody tells me!!" she said, "I am a camel!!"

And Tom Hanks laughed some more.

Evangeline smiled.

I love Tom Hanks' laugh!! she thought, Mmmm.... It sounds nothing like his laugh when he is acting!!

Suddenly Tom Hanks' number was called. For his Big Mac and greasy French fries were ready!! Shortly thereafter, Evangeline's number was called as well!!
  

"Oh good, our food is here!!" exclaimed Tom Hanks, "I am hungry, Evie!!"

"Funny, I never thought of you--a Hollywood actor--as someone who eats Big Macs and French fries at McDonald's!!" said Evangeline, "Huh. Aren't you on a gluten-free/vegetarian diet or something?"

I hope that did not come across as sounding judgmental!! thought Evangeline, Oh my gosh.... It did sound judgmental!!

But Tom Hanks just smiled!!

"Oh, Evie, I can be such a foodie!!" said Tom Hanks, "Just like everybody else!! I love food!! Sure, I try to eat healthy. I mean, I'm fifty-nine years old!! But sometimes, all I want is food that's loaded with cholesterol and saturated fat!!"

Tom Hanks laughed.

"And sometimes Evie, I am gaining several extra pounds for a specific film role!!" Tom Hanks continued.

He laughed. Which made Evangeline smile.

Tom Hanks bit into his Big Mac.

"Go on, child," Evangeline felt God whisper, "Now is the chance!! Share your faith with him!!"

Evangeline could once again feel her heart pound hard. Thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump, thump. Then it skipped a few beats. But not because Evangeline was feeling starstruck. No, the reason why she felt her heart pounding hard this time around? Fear of failure.

But what if Tom Hanks becomes angry at me for sharing my faith with him? worried Evangeline, Or worse. What if Tom Hanks rejects God and does not accept Him as his Savior?

"Go on, child," Evangeline felt God whisper, "You can do it!!"

Give me the words, strength, boldness, grace, wisdom, compassion and Biblical insight God, Evangeline silently prayed, I humbly accept that I cannot do this without You....

As Tom Hanks took a sip of his Coca-Cola, Evangeline reached into her tie dyed-print backpack. She pulled out an ebony-covered Bible. Tom Hanks looked up from his French fries.

"Uh...." began Evangeline, "Tom Hanks? I am.... A missionary...."

"Evie," he said, "Please call me 'Tom'!! It is much more casual that way!! But don't you dare call me 'Thomas', or I will think that I'm in huge trouble or something!!"

Evangeline laughed.

"Alright," she said, "Tom. I like that!! It makes you feel more like a friend or relative than an actor, celebrity and complete stranger!!"

"Exactly!!" said Tom Hanks.

Evangeline smiled.

God is using Tom Hanks'.... Uh.... I mean Tom's.... Witty personality to ease my nervousness and fears!! she thought, Cool!!

"Like I mentioned several seconds ago, I'm a missionary!!" repeated Evangeline.

This time, she said it with far more confidence in her voice.

"A missionary?" said Tom Hanks, "I have heard about them. But, Evie, shouldn't you be in a foreign country somewhere with several other like-minded missionaries? You're all alone!!"

"Yes," said Evangeline, "And no. My church's youth group back home is currently serving on a mission trip all the way in Russia."

Evangeline paused.

"But I firmly believe that America needs missionaries just as much--or maybe even more--as any foreign country does!! So here I am--in Hollywood, California--still thousands of miles away from home!! And I ain't never going back, Tom!! But I am not all alone. I have God on my side!! And He is guiding me every step of the way!!"

"Why aren't you ever going back home, Evie?" asked Tom Hanks, "I am just curious. Wouldn't your parents--and friends--miss you terribly? I have an adult daughter. Her name is Elizabeth. And if she traveled thousands of miles away from home at your young age without any plans to ever return? I would be heartbroken!!"

Tom Hanks paused for a moment.

"You know what Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz said, right?" he continued, "'There's no place like home'."

"Oh, I do not have any friends," Evangeline sadly said, "Because nobody understands or gets me. I am different. I'm an oddball, misfit, isolated loner. And I have somehow always been that way!! Now, as for my parents? Yes, they do, in fact, miss me. Mom has already called my cell phone--repeatedly--begging that I come home. But I ain't never going back!!"

"Stop stalling, child," Evangeline felt God whisper.

"But enough about me!!" said Evangeline, "Now, I do not know whether or not you believe in God. I haven't a clue if you're religious, spiritual, or even possess some sort of faith. Because I do not really know you personally!! Me? I am a Christian!! And, yes, I do believe in God!!"

Tom Hanks did not say one single word. He just listened to Evangeline.

Tom seems interested!! thought Evangeline.

She opened her Bible to John 3:16 and read the passage aloud.

For God so loved the world, that he gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

"Tom, I wholeheartedly believe this as truth!!" said Evangeline, "God sent His Son to die. Jesus' hands and feet were nailed against a cross. But then He arose from the dead and is saving us from all our sins!! Do you believe this as truth?"

Evangeline casually touched one of her greasy, salty French fries. They were stone-cold!! She casually touched her breaded, crispy chicken. It was stone-cold, as well!! For Evangeline had been so preoccupied with witnessing to Tom Hanks that she'd forgotten all about her food!!

"Let me get this straight, Evie...." he began, "God sent His only Son to die, rise again from the dead and save us from all our sins.... So that if we believe in Him, we'll have.... Everlasting life?"

"That's right!!" she said.

"And where will we spend this everlasting life?" asked Tom Hanks.

"In Heaven!!" answered Evangeline.

"But how can this even be possible?" asked Tom Hanks, "Why would any so-called 'loving' Father send His Son to be nailed against a cross for the sins of everyone else? Who even does that?! I have three adult sons. Their names are Colin, Chet and Truman. As a Dad, I would do anything in my power to spare them {And Elizabeth} from suffering, pain or affliction!! Anything. Yet God deliberately sent His Son to die? Why?! It just does not make any sense!!"

Oh dear, thought Evangeline, Tom's questions have stumped me!! How on Earth do I answer them?!

"Those are all very good questions...." began Evangeline, "Very good questions.... Uh...."

Help me out here, God!! prayed Evangeline, I cannot do this without you!!

Tom Hanks smirked.

"Evie, you do not have any answers to my questions, huh?" he said.

She reluctantly shook her head "no".

"Your questions were definitely profound and well thought out!!" Evangeline said, "But I cannot lie. I don't have any answers to your questions. However, this I know for certain. It was preordained from the beginning of time {You know.... It was Jesus' destiny!!} that God would send His Son to die for everybody's sins!! Because.... It was all a grand part of God's plans!! For you. And me. For all of His children!! So that we will have everlasting life!! I wholeheartedly believe all of this--and then some--as being true!! Do you, Tom?"

Evangeline waited patiently for furthermore questions. There were none.

"God sent His only son to die, rise again from the dead and save us from all our sins.... So that if we believe in Him, we'll have everlasting life," repeated Tom Hanks with conviction in his heart, "Because it was all a grand part of God's plans!! Yes, Evie.... I do believe all of this as being true!!"

"Good!!" exclaimed Evangeline, "Then will you accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?"

"Yes!!" said Tom Hanks, "I will, Evie!! And I'll do even more than that!! Alright? I will go home and share everything that you have told me with my wife, Rita!!"

"Oh I am so happy for you!!" exclaimed Evangeline, with excitement in her voice, "And Rita, as well!! God will change your Lives!! Many people everywhere seemingly declare this. But only God will truly change your Lives!!"

Evangeline could feel her heart flutter like the wings of a beautiful butterfly!!

Oh. My. Gosh, thought Evangeline, I just shared my faith with Tom Hanks!! Uh, I mean.... Tom!! And he accepted Jesus into his heart, too!! Oh. My. Gosh!!

"Well, Evie, I must go," said Tom Hanks, "It was so nice to meet you!! Now, remember what Dorothy said in The Wizard of Oz. 'There's no place like home'. Something to think about."

Tom Hanks then stood up, shook Evangeline's hand and walked away.

There's no place like home. There's no place like home. There's no place like home. There's no place like home. There's no place like home.

That line from The Wizard of Oz repeated itself within Evangeline's mind over and over and over.

Tom is right, she thought, Dorothy did make a valid point. There's no place like home!!

Evangeline then sat at her laptop and wrote an e-mail to her Mom.

You will never--ever--in your wildest dreams be able to guess who I shared my faith with today!! Tom Hanks!! Well, actually.... It is just 'Tom'. That's what he said I could call him!! Tom was eating a Big Mac and French fries at McDonald's!! That's right. McDonald's!! Tom is so nice, witty and real!! Well, guess what?! Tom accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior!! Thanks be to God!! ;-D

Oh yeah.... To quote Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz. 'There's no place like home'. Yes, Mom, you guessed it.... I am coming home!! ;-)