The Breaking Waves

A memoir by D.K Parker

I look out over the pacific
And watch the western sky turn to night

The waves crash against the rock beach below
As the sound fills the air and dominates the night

I look at her on my left
Her skin so soft

She is the most amazing woman
I could love her

We shared ice cream there on the pier
And I kiss her soft sweet lips for the first time

We walked on the beach that night together
Our love for each other was clear as the night evolved

We are from two different worlds
But tonight that did not matter

Back to her place
She ask me in for a drink

She was an amazing woman
I could love her

We had wine by the fireplace
Laying there holding each other on the couch

Her lips were wet and soft
As I kissed her, she became limp in my arms

We made love all night
By the light of the fireplace

I could here the waves breaking
Outside the window on the beach

The next morning I awake to her soft skin against mine
I did love her

"Solo" But Not Alone

A Memoir By Darren K. Parker

Today’s flight lesson started like any other. I showed up at the flight school with logbook, knee board, medical certification, and my sectional chart in hand ready for another flight lesson with my instructor Mike. We had discussed my solo a few times, but the wind was always too high, there was too much air traffic, or some other reason not to solo. But as I drove over to the airport I thought to myself, “Today could be the day.”

Mike and I walked out to Cessna N14082 and I started the pre-flight. It was a hot Nebraska summer day and surprisingly very little wind. Mike said, “Lets start with a few touch and goes in the pattern. I clicked my radio over to Lincoln Ground and made a request for touch and goes, and once cleared I taxied to runway 35. After I completed the run up, I called to tower and was cleared for takeoff on 35. It was a hot, humid day and the plane just did not want to climb, but after pulling back on the yoke and maintaining a little pressure we were airborne. Under Mike’s watchful eye, and the eyes of the FAA, I made three touch and goes, and then Mike said, “Let the tower know this one is a full stop.” My heart skipped a beat as I radioed to Lincoln Tower; I knew that when we landed there was a good chance my instructor would be jumping out, that is exactly what happened.

I taxied up to the flight school entrance and Mike grabbed my log book and medical certificate. He made a quick endorsement and in a no-nonsense tone said, “Go out there and do three more just like the last three.” It is hard to put into words how I felt at that very moment, I was not nervous, perhaps apprehensive is a better way to describe the odd feeling. As Mike walked away, without a look back, I thought to myself, am I really going to fly this plane on my own, with no one watching over me? I tuned my radio for the most up to date ADIS and then called to Lincoln Ground, and in as confident and pilot like voice I could muscle said, “Lincoln Ground, Cessna 14082, student pilot, at Silverhawk, with Yankee, for touch and goes.” I had said this many times before and the words flowed naturally. Ground returned my call with, “Cessna 082 are you ready to taxi?” Without even a second thought I responded with, “Cessna 082 ready to taxi” before I had time to think about what was going on, ground had cleared me to taxi to runway 35. As I made my way to the runway my heart started beating a little faster and for some unknown reason my left leg started to shake. So much that I had to concentrate to even steer the plane to the run up area. I had to calm myself down and all I could think to do was say a quick prayer. “God, give me the strength to make the right decisions, stay calm, and enjoy this experience, please keep me safe.” Immediately, I regained my confidence, I relaxed the death grip on the throttle and yoke, and my heart and left leg returned to normal operation.

I taxied to the run up area and after completing my check list I taxied up to runway 35 and with a deep breath I called to the tower, “Lincoln Tower, Cessna 14082, student pilot , ready for take off on runway 35.” Cessna 082, you are cleared for takeoff, make right traffic and have a great flight.” I pushed in the throttle, eased on to the runway, then full throttle, airspeed good, everything feels right, 65 knots, pull back on the yoke and there I was flying the airplane. I climbed to 1700 feet and made right traffic. So far so good!!!! I started my downwind run as I reached pattern altitude of 2200 feet and the tower called out, “Cessna 082, you are number two in the pattern, traffic on final, cleared for the option on runway 35.” I acknowledged, looked out my right window to see the Cherokee just touching down on runway 35. I pulled out on the throttle and slowed the engine to 1500 rpms and applied 10 degree flaps then 20. I made my turn to base then right at 1700 ft turned onto final with runway 35 directly in front of me. It seemed odd that it was ME actually flying the plane. Every movement, every leaver pulled and button pushed happen naturally and I was not really thinking about every detail, I was simply flying the plane. I lined up for final a little high in the glide path. My heart was beating a little faster, but I still felt completely at ease. I lowered full flaps and then I pulled completely out on the throttle to lose a little more altitude, leveled off and then flared the wings. I seemed to float down the runway more than ever before and wandered if I would ever touch down. I continued to hold back pressure on the yoke and corrected the nose with the rudder waiting for my Skyhawk to settle onto the runway. Time passed very slowly, but I am sure it was only seconds, with only the slightest hint of a touch down the plane eased itself onto the runway. It could have been my best landing ever.

I gave full power, flaps up, and screamed down the runway once again, but this time with much more confidence. I felt 100% in control of everything around me and a true sense accomplishment. I made another touch and go, then back around again, all said and done I completed three take offs and landings today as Pilot In Command!

Flying has always been a dream of mine, and today was a major mile stone in my life. I reflect on this experience with great pride, a sense of accomplishment, and a great lesson learned. At times in life we find ourselves flying “solo” with no one sitting there beside us to bail us out of trouble. During these times we must learn to trust our talents, remember our training, lean on lessons learned from experience and above all remember we are never truly alone. Yes, today was my “solo” flight, but I assure you that I was not alone up there flying my 172 Skyhawk. That simple prayer during taxi, one I wish I would have said a million times before, brought God into that cockpit with me and I owe my success today, and every day, to Him.

On "Ofishal Business" in FL

My Make Believe Life

A thought by D.K. Parker

I wish I lived the life that people speak of
True, I have had many wonderful experiences

But most never realize that I am envious of them
Their life and their families

Yes I love my life
And I live each day as another adventure

But I have given up certain things
Things I often wish I had

The love of a wife
And children to call me Dad

Perhaps one day I will have both
But I wonder how or if it will even happen

I am an adventure
Never settling into one place very long

I only hope and pray that one day I will find her
The one that is that special someone

The one I will spend the rest of my life with
The mother of my children

One day my life will be grand
Grand as those who talk about my adventures

Until then the journey of my life continues
Who knows what tomorrow will bring

Costa Rican Sunset

Enjoying the Journey

An ongoing quest for purpose
By D.K. Parker

Today I write to you from beautiful Lincoln, NE, my new home! Those who know me well always ask, “Lincoln? Nebraska?” “What are you doing in Lincoln, NE?” My answer is always very simple, “Enjoying the journey.” Life is a journey, and after three months here in Lincoln, I can say with 100% confidence that this is where God wants me, for now that is!

After my first trip to Romania in 2004, I realized that life is a journey, a journey that we should embrace and enjoy. My personal journey has always been centered on “what is my purpose in life”. Today I am closer to the answer than I have ever been.

I spent the last 6 years working in corporate America. It was a priceless adventure that I look back on proudly. I lived in right field of Wrigley in Chicago, I partied with celebrities in New York City, I attended the Oscars, I watched close friends have children and grow their families, I traveled the world experiencing life to its fullest, I fell in and out of love with the most beautiful woman, I lost two good friends to untimely deaths, but though all the ups and downs I often reflex on my greatest experience of all, that being the life long friends I made along the way. God brought us together though various unique circumstances, I hope and pray that I had a positive impact on their lives. After six wonderful years, I gave up the comforts of my pension and the security of my job to take on new challenges, and I could not be happier with that decision.

Now, I am starting a new chapter in my life; a chapter that I would title, “Change, It Is What You Make of It.” I could not be happier in Lincoln, a town of 250,000 people. Grant it, it is not as sexy as Chicago or NYC, but assure there is something very special about this place, perhaps it is as simple as knowing that I am suppose to be here. The people of Nebraska are some of the hardest working, most dedicated individuals you will ever meet. There is a true passion that exists in everyone I encounter. It could be the young supply chain analyst hell bent on making his mark, the father of who wants more for his children than he had, the executive who has came back to Lincoln to drive positive change in the community, or the naturalized immigrant who loves America and Lincoln and wants to show his friends the “real America.”

Life is an ongoing journey for each of us. Many of us seek the ultimate question of purpose. I can not tell you what that is for you. It is different for us all, but through good friends, a relationship with God, and belief in yourself you will find your purpose. For me, well, after a lot of prayers and conversations with friends I believe that my purpose in life is the betterment of others. I am convinced that my success can only be measured by the success of those I interact with. God has blessed me with a unique personality and outlook on life. I can only hope and pray that He will use me as a tool to drive positive change here in my new home of Lincoln, NE. Come visit, it is a surprisingly amazing place!

Lonely

By D.K Parker

Loneliness hurts sometimes
In a room full of people, yet alone
Lonely hurts

Loneliness stays with you
Drinking in the bar, no one around
Lonely stays

Loneliness haunts you deep inside your heart
And endless tunnel of hopelessness
Lonely haunts

Loneliness lives within us all
Happy to everyone around you, no one really knows
Lonely lives

I know it is wrong

A memoir of a lost love by D.K. Parker

I know it is wrong
But all I want is you

I see you daily
But know that it will never be

I see you with him
But I am alone

I think about you each night
But you are not with me
I understand we will never be
But my heart breaks as I think about you

I know that I will love again
But you will only be my friend

I will always think of you
But you will not think of me

I will love you always
But I know it is wrong

The Blues, Aren't So Blue Anymore

Photo by D.K.Parker

God Bless The Shepherd's Tree

Looking out over the desert plain
Life is dull and gray

There is one sign of hope
Small and green in the distance

A single ray of sunlight shines down
Heaven opens up, could it be love

The tree is green
The only life for miles

Myth tells of the shepherd underneath
Life shows no shepherd, but I do believe

The tree is more than shade
It is the life in the desert

Hope in a hell of heat
Life in a lifeless place

Surviving regardless of conditions
Growing and living

God bless the shepherds tree
And it’s lesson in life

Holding Life Together

 

Dream Chasing

I am a proud to say that yes, I am a dream chaser. That’s right at 30 years of age, I still believe I am going to go out make a difference in this great world, have an impact, be somebody! Perhaps I already have! What are your dreams? Have you achieved them? What is stopping you?

Many times in life we over complicate the simplest aspects of a living a great life. We all get caught up in the future and rarely live for the moment. Why is the question I ask you?
I see people everyday walking down the street, are they happy? Are they living out their dreams?

Why have we given up on our dreams? Many would say it is unrealistic to be so bold as to hang on to such obscure ideas. At what point did your dreams become unimportant? When did taking a chance on what you believe in become so difficult?

What is stopping you from achieving your dreams? Why are you too not a Dream Chaser?

Questions On The Road (original post)

The post that started it all!!!

"When I travel I am at one with my thoughts and my soul. Sadly it is only time I am truly myself, 100% disconnected from the stress and pressure, which I have created in my life. It is on the road that I find myself asking the tough questions of life. In search of answers to these questions, I deiced to post this Blog to share questions, as well as, my thoughts in both words and photos. I look forward to hearing and perhaps sharing you stories of enlightenment."

God Moments

A thought from D.K. Parker

There are moments in life were I feel 100% connected to God. Recently after a very trying week, I was driving six hours across U.S. Interstate 80 and had what I consider to be a God moment. There was no voice or vision of a face in the sky, but I assure you God was with me.

The previous week had been pure hell, and to be honest I was at the end of my rope. I was frustrated with life and the stress I create in it. While driving back to Chicago from Stuart, Iowa on that late Sunday afternoon I spent the entire trip in worship. I prayed for strength. I prayed for answers to the questions I often ponder about life and direction. I sang out loud all the old hymns I knew from church. I praised God for the many blessings he has bestowed on me. Although I was not in a church house, I knew God was hearing my worship service there on I80 east bound for Chicago, and that He was with me

It was about two hours outside of Chicago that God let me know he was hearing me. After four hours of driving and worshiping, I had sunk into a state of highway hypnotism, being that I was conscious and oblivious of everything all at the same time. Interstate driving is like that sometimes. It was at that moment God made me aware of his presence. At fist I felt a warming of my shoulders and back, and then a small beam of sunlight hit may dash board and steering wheel. I looked back over my left shoulder and saw the most amazing sun set I have ever encountered. Rays of light shined through a group of puffy clouds, as the sun set lowly in the western sky. Colors of blue mixed with orange and red filled the sky, and one single ray of light shined down on me. It was at that moment I knew everything was going to be all right and that God was watching over me. I had never been so confident that I was living the life God wanted me to live and that my life had purpose.

I drove the rest of the way to Chicago with a true feeling of happiness and love. I felt blessed by God for my family, my friends, and the many gifts he has given me. Above all I felt blessed to be a Christian and part of Gods family

This Long Forgotten Quilt

A thought of D.K. Parker

Tonight I lay sleeping under this long forgotten quilt. My dreams are of home, forgotten adventures, and my beloved family. To anyone else this is just another piece of bedding, but to me this quilt is my family and the life I left behind in Alabama. Beneath this old tattered quilt nothing is wrong and I am safe, back home. The weight of the world cannot penetrate it, who knew cotton was more than bullet proof.

This quilt was not store bought, but woven by the hands of my Grandmother from cotton and twine produced in the cotton fields of Alabama. In the corner her name is stitched along with the date she finished it. She never knew how this quilt would protect me long after I had left Alabama.

One day this long forgotten quite will protect my own family and children. Perhaps always reminding them and me where we came from. I will awake in the morning ready to take on the world once again! But for now I will lay and dream of home and the life I left back Alabama

Fathers & Sons

By D.K. Parker

It is an amazing relationship between fathers and sons.
Love and frustration wrapped into a collective of emotions
Both the father and son are right and wrong at the same time

They are best friends and adversaries
Pride and the love for each other combating the innermost being of each man
Love overcomes, although is often overlooked by both

Neither admits nor accepts defeat
Each believing whole heartily that they are right
With age understanding of the others views are more understood

The son learned that his father was right
He realizes that the many lessons taught during his youth are the foundations of his life
His success can be traced to past decisions he has made, not realizing at the time it was his fathers influence

The father learned too that his son was right
Not always inline with his ideas, the son’s decisions have lead to success
The father’s legacy lives on in his son

I Believe In People

I believe in the goodness of people. All people are born wanting to do the right thing, and I trust that people will always default to good rather than evil. There have been times in my life that I have trusted people and they used me and hurt me, but in the end the rewards of trust far out way the pain created by the few who somehow have gone astray.

I believe in the greatness of all people! Every person has a born skill set and other skills are learned and perfected throughout life. At birth we all have to potential to be great, and I have never understood why people sometimes settle for second place when first is just within in reach.

I believe in the love of people. It could be during a Manhattan blackout when millions of people come together to help one another, or two friends exchanging a big bear hug at the end of a camping trip.
Yes! I do believe in people! For the very reason that together we are a collective of unique and amazing individuals with ideological thoughts and beliefs, but the one thing that ties us all together are other people and their differences.

Change

A random thought by D.K. Parker

Many of us are scared of change
Although I am an advocate of change
I too am scared!

Why does change scare us?
Life is an amazing experience
Each moment of it driven by change

Everyday we are faced with decisions
Decisions that will change our lives forever
Why are we scared?

Change is a part of life
Embrace it
Live for it

Know Where You Came From

Five Generations Of The Parker Family

Andalusian Nights

Notes from the travel log of D.K. Parker

There is something truly amazing about this place. The olive trees grow on the steep hills that overlook the Mediterranean Sea. The countryside is an array of white villages and amazing people. The cities are alive with lust, excitement, and challenge. In this place the women are the most beautiful in the world.

It was just last night I was dancing with her on square. The guitar played as her body moved with the rhythm of the music in the moonlight. Her skin smelled of sweet flowers in morning dew and her skin glistened in the night. How could this American ever have found such a women, or such a place?

The night continued an others joined in the dancing. The wine flowed freely, and it was as if the entire city was there dancing with us. The smell of the sea was in the air, but few noticed, this was thier life! Oh how the each day was more amazing than the last.

The dancing continued and the sounds of feet tapping on the cobble stone streets below filled the night air. Time had stopped!

Doorway to Adventure

The Door
What is behind the door?
Where does it lead?
Why do I care?

The Door
It is made of wood sturdy and strong.
The door is locked by fear.
I may not pass through.

The Door
How will I pass?
Courage is the key.
Behind the door lies the journey.

Let the adventure begin!!!

Constants

Photo By D.K. Parker

Purpose

Recently I have found myself questioning my life and purpose. Has my life had any impact? What have I really accomplished? What is the next step? How does my life work into the greater good?

As I talk with my peers, I find that they too are asking themselves similar questions. I find it interesting that most outsiders would view my peers and I as successful. We all have good jobs, we make above average salaries, and we give the perception of strength and happiness. But there is clearly something missing in our lives. I fear that many of us will spend our entire lives looking for it, and in the end never find it.

We are all in search of something, what are you looking for? Me, well I wish I had an answer for you, but I do not. I am certain it is different for everyone. As for me, I am still on a journey, a journey of self-discovery. I have started to focus on the positive; hell life is way to short to have a bad day. Also, I have tried to start measuring my personal success by the number of people I can help, and I’m asking them to “pay it forward.” I struggle with the fact that this still leaves me with no final answer to my purpose, and I cant except the fact that this is it. I will continue to talk with my peers, friends, and family, and spend some time praying about this important question. I look forward to the day I can clearly articulate the purpose of my life.

I am also curious; can you answer that same question? If the answer is yes, and you already know the purpose of your life, I praise your success and hope you are fulfilled. I would love to hear more about your journey of self-discovery. How were you enlightened? If you are like me, and do not yet know the answer to this interesting life question, I challenge you to search your soul and develop a plan to find out!

I would love nothing more to hear and share your stories about your life and it purpose. Responses to this blog can be posted here in by clicking on the comments button below.

Lone Buffalo

Photo by D.K. Parker

Fine Line of Enlightenment

Photo by D.K. Parker

Open Water

I look out over the bow at the open water.
I see the water meet the sky.
The sun sits high in the sky, but soon the open water will absorb it.
The moon will then rise from the open water.
Another day gives into night, yet creating a new day!

Face Of God On A Stairway to Heaven

Photo by D.K. Parker

Self Portrait

Photo by D.K. Parker

Perspective

Photo by D.K. Parker

Cloud Gate, Chicago, IL

Photo by D.K.Parker

Life and Living : A Random Thought

There is life
And there is living

Life is predetermined
You are born
You live
You Die

Living is created
You are born
You learn
You love
You experience
You share

Are you living life?

Is life living you?

Going Home, A Southern View

Home is a wonderful place, and although going home again can be tough, it is an amazing experience once you get there. I left Alabama at 22 after graduating from Auburn University, and with my degree in hand; I set out with hopes and dreams of making a difference in the world. At that point in my life I was running, not searching. All I wanted to do was get as far from Alabama as possible and live a great life. Seven years later, I am thankful for the many adventures I have had, but Alabama is part of me and I miss it with all my heart.

Yes, I loved living in Manhattan! New York City gets in your blood and it is hard to leave. I made life long friends in Iowa, and I will always have a place in my heart for a state whose motto at the time was “Iowa, You Make Me Smile”, and let me tell you, it did and still does today. I fell in and out of love with a great girl while living in Toledo, Ohio. The great state of Texas was good to me. And Chicago is where I live today. Life in the windy city is amazing. and I am comfortable here, but it is just not home.

Home for me is, and forever will be, sitting in the shade of a white oak tree that you watched grow along with your family over the years. It is a place where you still look out for your neighbors. Where the elderly live their lives listening to the police scanners and gossiping about who they saw leaving the liquor store or whose messing around on who. Home is farming cotton, skinny dipping with your girl friend at the river, crappie fishing at the lake, drinking with buddies, while playing the sign game. It is where you can sit at night and count the endless stars in the heavens, while listening to the mocking birds sing. Home is where the family dog is, well, part of the family. It is where life and time move at a slightly slower pace. Home is where family still means something.

I never new how much I loved home and how much Alabama was a part of my life. I still bleed orange and blue as I cheer on the best college football team in the country. I laugh about driving to the county line to by beer since my hometown is dry! The last seven years have been exciting, but I miss home. Like it or not, Alabama is part of me. And I am proud to be from such a great place. I believe that Alabama is the Heart of Dixie and no matter where I live or where I travel, Dixie is forever in the heat of me.

Lost Words

Photo By D.K.Parker

Endless Road

Photo by D.K. Parker

Rat Race: A Different View of Corporate America

This highway is my maze, and my career and success, the cheese I am searching far. I look to my left and to my right, wondering if the others are thinking the same. How did I ever get here? There is so much more to life and living than sitting in this traffic jam, but just like a trained animal each morning I awake at the sound of the screeching, irritating tone and I do as I am trained to do.

Who is controlling me? Could it be my boss? No, someone else is controlling him? Is it my paycheck? What causes me to react to the stimulants of life, more money, the opportunity to advance, or perhaps a bigger job in the future. Only more empty promises of happiness will come. Why am I here? Is this what life is all about?

I continue to sit is this traffic wondering, what happens to me next, as if I had no control over my own life. Will my promotion come through, oh things will be better then, as I try to convince myself that soon I will be happy, but I will not, nothing will change. I will just be a bigger rat, in a different maze and maybe better trained.
Everyday I consider quitting this game, but fear keeps me going. Will I ever overcome my fear? Will the pain ever out way the fear of loosing it all. Why am I not happy? I have it made. People look at me and say, “He is successful” but I am not. I am only a trained animal running in an endless rat race.

Perspective, A Different View

Photo by D.K. Parker

Friends, People, and Life

I am a people person. I prefer to be around people most all the time. I am at my best when surrounded by energetic, excitable individuals. It is as if I feed off their energy, good or bad. I am my own person, but I assure you every person I encounter in life becomes a little bit of my existence.

It is for this reason that to truly understand me, you must understand my friends and their importance in my life. There is one who is my best friend, and he is my brother in this world, although we are not related. There are times when only my best friend understands me, and times that he is the only person that questions what everyone else agrees upon to be true and correct. I am a better person for having him as a friend.

There is also a network of close personal friends who have altered the course of my life. It is unfortunate, but most of them have no idea the impact they have had on me. Their family adopted me when I first moved to the mid-west, where I knew know one. Others suffered together along side of me as together we learned how to survive in corporate America, and we all lived to fight another day, only this time stronger through our friendship. Some have been roommates, Auburn Grads, fellow Cub fans, NYC drinking buddies or fellow wary travels I met along the way. Many have been more adventuresome than I, and today I live vicariously through them from time to time. They risked everything to chase after their dreams in Japan, Paris, Romania, and a many other destinations around the world. Oh how I love to tell stories about them! In one-way or another, all of these people have changed my perception of life.

Then there is the chance meeting that completely alters my entire life. It could be a random meeting at a dear friends wedding in Guatemala where everyone becomes friends for week or perhaps a lifetime. Or it could be a young banker who was tragically killed only after a few weeks of friendship. That chapter in my life was short, but it will forever be one of the most important.

People are people and life is life, but for me the two are always one in the same. I look forward to remaining close to those who are my friends and I cant wait to meet new people tomorrow.
Who are your friends? How have they changed your life? I would love to hear your story of friendship. Please feel free to post your responses here!

Glowing Sunset

Photo by D.K. Parker

The Lemonade Stand Business Model

Last year I saw this kid in the park selling lemonade. Come to think of it, this was the only real American lemonade stand I had ever seen. As I watched his customers come and go I begin to ponder how something as simple as a child’s lemonade stand would look if it were ran using today’s business model. So if I could go back in time and run a lemonade stand using today’s corporate business model this is how my business would have progressed

In order to cut cost and increase production, I’d water down my lemonade to the point it was barley recognizable as lemonade. Next, I would open my stand in the second best location in the neighborhood to cut cost on the location expenses. Then I would employee other kids to sell my lemonade in other locations paying them a base salary that is just be high enough to keep them from quitting, and on top of that I would offer them five cents a glass for every glass they sold over their target plan, which I would make slightly unobtainable.

Once I had operations in place, I would start buying my product in bulk, and then finding a way to outsource production of lemonade to Asia. Then I would venture into other refreshment markets and offer spring water and soft drinks. Perhaps, even private labeled bottle water for my lemonade stands.

Finally, I would launch a massive marketing campaign, and when my Lemonade stand revenues were at their peek I would sell the business, write a book about it, and become a Lemonade stand consultant.

Conspiracy, A View from the Grassy Knoll

Photo By D.K. Parker

The True Sound of Freedom

Freedom has a distinct and true sound, some people never hear it, others never realize it, and there are those of us who live for it. We are the few who seek out new adventures and thrills everyday. We seek understanding and we question norms. We do not degrade the beliefs of others. Rather we build on the differences we encounter. We become one with those we meet, if only for an instant, and as we depart from their presence part of them will always be etched into our being. Interactions with the people we meet along our journey are the most important aspect of our existence. Some of these people become our friends, others our peers, and others only bring about a smile or a happy moment of memory.

Together we are a collective of rucksack ramblers and backpack buddies. We have little fear of the unknown. You might see us as you drive through the countrysides of Europe as we hitch from one destination to another. We can be found working at random no name bars on some small island in the Adamen Sea. Some of us work the fields of a small, undiscovered countryside trying to scrape together enough money for our next adventure. Others will find us camped just outside of a small town with a few other crazy mates that we befriended along the way. We are never in one place very long, and you might walk right past and not realize we even exist, but we really do not care if you see us or not.

Our driving is force is not the size of our bank account, nor how our stock portfolio stacks up against our brothering. What does drive us? Living life, and the experiencing it to its fullest. We love people and we love you, although you do not always understand us. We sometimes laugh at you when we see you with your guidebooks and fancy digital cameras. You also piss us off to know end when you snap pictures at the worst possible times. We wonder why you do not live for the experience and the moment, and why do you carry your homeland everywhere you go, and you expect everyone to conform to your thoughts and ways? Do not forget that we too are proud of our own culture, and that we love our homelands, but remember we live life to experience all things and all others.

We seek understanding and enlightenment. Weather it comes from a monk on the highest peak in Tibet, or a homeless man on a cold no name street in Frankfort? We do not judge those who share their philosophy, although we do question and ask for more insight. We only ask that you help us understand. When you see us during our travels do not dismiss us, rather talk to us. Do not forget that we want to be connected to you and perhaps part of us will become part of your being as well.

We travel the world in search of answers, and we have found one truth; the true and distinct sound of freedom is the sound of your passport being stamped as you enter into an unknown country with an open and free mind.

Rainy Days

Photo By D.K. Parker

Enjoy the Journey

from the travel log of Darren Parker, Date June 1, 2004

I have been back in the United States now for two months, and there is not a day goes by I do not have thoughts of Romania and how God took a missionary with a vision, a small Romanian town, and some extraordinary people, and totally changed my life.

I accepted Christ at the age of 13, and I remember the details of that day like it happen yesterday. The feeling when Christ came into my sole and I accepted him as my Lord and my Savoir. I remember the cleansing feeling, the tears of joy, and the empowerment. That was truly a wonderful day! My relationship with God grew thought high school and was proud to take the message to other youth. Then I went to college.

While in college I slowly slipped away from God, and by my sophomore year, God and religion were part of my past. I graduated in 1998 and went out to concur the world. I work hard and sacrificed everything to get ahead. The cash pored in and I was promoted fast. At age 28 I was on top of the world living in New York and one the newest executive in one of the world largest companies. And although happy with my place in life, I was clearly unhappy and searching for answers to lives big question, “Why am I here.” It was late one night on the rooftop of my Manhattan Apartment that God came to me once again. I was overwhelmed with his presence and I realized that I owed all my success to him. He helped me understand that He had been preparing me for bigger things and that He had a plan to me. It was that moment I rededicated my life to God. Once again I was excited and empowered, although I was more confused than ever.

Within a week of my rededication I was transferred to Dallas, TX. It was in Dallas I got involved with Metro Family Church. It was great to be back in church again. I continued to pray for God to show me his plan for me. On a flight from the West Coast, he came to me in a truly divine thought and clearly told me that I should travel outside of the U.S. and see the work He and His servants are doing in other parts of the world. I spoke to a close Christian friend and he forward information regarding R.U.T.H Ministries. Within a few days I was having conversations with Marta and Marshall about Harsova, Romania, of all places. It was clear that God wanted me to go and see, a month later I found myself on a plane to Bucharest. It hit me as I was flying over the Atlantic Ocean that I had no idea why I was going to Romania, but for some reason it felt right. This is what God wanted, and I was happy to be going to help.

I spent 10 days in Harsova and the moment I arrived all the locals accepted me. I broke bread with them. I played soccer with them, and I worshiped with them. I have sat in many church services in my life, but none have moved me more than those in the small 500 sq ft church there in Harsova. The passion you can see in the pastors eyes, the love in the voice of the youth as they sing, and the prayers of the church member moved me to tears in each service.

While I was in Harsova God used many people to change my life. The pastor’s children thrilled my heart every day. Shasa and Nick became great friends and I miss telling jokes with them. Pastor Emi, he is the most amazing person I have ever met. I could have listened to him talk for hours about life before the revolution. He is a great Christian man and wonderful leader. The street kids and there amazement of me touch my heart in a very special way. And above all the many late night discussions with Marshall about RUTH, mission work, Gods plan, and a million other topics.

I left Harsova on a Saturday afternoon, and to be honest it was one of the hardest goodbyes I have ever had. It was hard not to cry as everyone hugged me and wish me farewell. Some prayed with me, some cried with me, others laughed with me, it was a truly emotional day. I guess the hardest good by was with Oti the pastor’s eight-year-old son, and I have to admit there were tears in my eyes as I gave him a hug goodby. I departed from Romania on a Sunday and it was not until I was flying over Greenland I took out my digital camera and started flipping through the 500 plus pictures that it really hit me. I had gone to Romania to help people and I gained more than anyone.

Upon arriving back in the United States I continued to pray to God to revile his plan for me. I questions, “should I quite my job and become a missionary?” “God what am I suppose to do with this wonderful knowledge you have given me.” In answering my prayers God has made it clear to me that it is part of his plan for me to involved in mission work, but at what level God has not told me. I am certain it will come in time, and I am committed to follow that plan as God shows me more.

Since I returned from Romania people I have known for years continue to comment that I am different, that something about me is different. This opens a door and allows me to share my personal story about my salvation and gives me the opportunity to lead a lost sole Christ.

I would have never thought that I would have to get on a plane and fly halfway around the world, but I am glad God took the people in Harsova, Romania and changed my life and the lives of all those I witness to in his name.
When Marshall dropped me at the airport he said one thing to me that I will live by forever, “ Enjoy the Journey!” Christian life is truly a journey, and I happy that God’s plan for my journey included Harsova Romania, and I am excited to see what the next stop in this exhilarating journey will be.

Smell The Fresh Bread

Photo By D.K. Parker

Trains

There is something amazing about trains! Below you will see the one of the many random thoughts from my journal. I made this entry late on a Sunday afternoon while taking the train back to New Haven, CT a after a wonderful weekend in New York City.

Trains
People get on, people get off
Trains
Businessmen read, buddies talk, strangers stare, lovers kiss
Trains
A child laughs, not a care in the world
Trains
A conductor that comments on your baseball cap and shares his thoughts about the season
Trains
Car after car, combined as one
Trains
Speeding through the night as daylight gives into darkness
Trains
Sounds of the metal screeching as we twist and turn down the track
Trains
One stop, two stops, the next stop,
Trains
Small towns, larger towns, why does the train stop here
Trains
A small point in time where all aboard are one
Trains
Faith, random meetings, love at first sight
Trains
People get on people get off

Trains!

Obituary of the Unknown

Yesterday morning at 5:31 a.m. the world lost another unknown soul. Like so many others that perish everyday, he really only had lived an average life.

He spent 25 years at the same company where he moved through meaningless middle management jobs. He was a want to be adventurer, but really could never give up the security and money his job provided to be truly happy.

A wife and two children survive him, and the million-dollar life insurance policy should help them get through this difficult time. I am certain he will be missed, but in the long term another will replace him.

Hundreds attended the funeral, although he had a few true friends. Everyone was there to see and be seen. There were discussion about stock tips, upcoming business meetings, and latest community rumors, but little was said about the accomplishments of the average man who had died.

The eulogy was delivered, the minister spoke, and a few people did even cry, since death is sad that way. His body was then taken to the cemetery where it was buried in his final resting place. His tombstone simply read “He Honored Life”, with his birth date and death date etched into the granite.
Within a few days the emotions around his death will subside and he will become forgotten by most. At that point he will become just an unknown soul that once passed across the earth.

Time Expired

Photo By D.K. Parker

Drinking and Writing!

I open this bottle of Pinot Noir, one glass to relax.

The writer’s block is more than I can bear.

One glass and the words flowed freely.

Two glasses and the words run together

What am I writing?

Why am I writing?

Third glass, the bottle is empty.

The Imperfect Light Blub

The Beauty of a Woman

Her dark nipple glistens in the light of the full moon.
She sat on top of my body looking deep into my eyes.
My breath became deep and my heart beat fast.
Her skin was as soft as clouds only seen from above.
Her long black hair draped down onto her breast.
Her smell was as sweet and sensual as only one could dream.
It was at that moment I realized I loved her.
We made love their on that beach by the lake.
At that moment we became one person,
Nothing else existed in the world.
Oh the passion of that moment!
The next morning I awoke alone.
Was this only a dream, where had she gone?
I could still smell her sweetness in the air around me.
I had loved!