2.2 Miles to Heaven on Earth

As teenagers, Joan and I most typically did what teenagers do; however, our relationship from the beginning was unusually mature. Grounded in faith, it wasn't clear initially that our connection came from a higher authority, a God wink or intervention. However, our journey was filled with challenges, grief, uncertainty, opportunities, and weaknesses. Our three ingredients or pillars were etched in love, trust, and faith.

In my business, volunteer, and church lives, I was honored to present testimony of our special God-given life-a life of love, dedication, and survival. Sharing our life events stimulated many to ask me for years to write a book and share my story with the world. I wanted to protect my wife and daughters, not knowing how they would react to the written word.

My grandchildren, Mackenzie, Couper, Owen, and Ava, often, on rides, would ask Pop-Pop to share his stories. I would ask them if they wanted real or fiction; they always wanted real-life stories. Together, they often teased me, especially when I shared my St. Mary's stories.

Joan would remind me occasionally about sharing my story in print. Strangely, after one morning of prayer, I heard it was time, so here I am, sharing my story with you: a husband, father, grandfather, and servant through fellowship and love.

My journey began with music in the air, a smile from a stranger, and the first kiss on the Ferris wheel, not knowing it was 2.2 Miles to Heaven on Earth.

-- George Hird