''Where did you get the idea for your upcoming book, UNDER THE GREAT ELM – A Life of Luck & Wonder?'

I really didn’t set out to write a book, only to record certain extraordinary experiences that I wanted friends and family to know about. These experiences, some of which stretched my understanding of ‘’reality,’’ needed to be preserved. As well, I sought some sort of through-line for the kaleidoscope of my life.

As I began to write, and remember, remarkable stories rolled out of high adventure, interspecies encounters, and jaw-dropping serendipity, like the lost and found love story that weaves through my life. I began to take note of an incredible luck that had graced my journey, sometimes through the most harrowing moments. I also became aware of an abiding sense of wonder, with me since boyhood in Illinois. Clearly, here was a story worth telling. What would officially be labeled a ‘’memoir’’ was in actuality a spiritual odyssey, an adventure novel.

In a world in need of a lift, I felt it was important to share a different perspective. In shadow and in sun...luck and wonder.
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Published on February 23, 2022 10:27
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message 1: by Clayton (new)

Clayton Roach Rich,
I would love to read your book! I've browsed through the internet to see where I can get a copy, but then again, it did just come out about a month or so ago. After reading the blurb of what your book is about, it seems like you've experienced the beauties of life that our Father has blessed us with. The way in which you write your blog posts reveals to me that you have the ability to give a reader a vibrant perspective on the experiences being illustrated.
- CR


message 2: by Rich (new)

Rich Flanders Hi Clayton! And I would love nothing more than for you to be able to read my book! It's just not out yet. Right now, it looks like sometime around late March, but I will keep everyone posted. I personally can't wait to get the story out there, as it is uplifting, and can be a force for good in the world. In these days of Putin's horrifying war on the people of Ukraine, and the sense of anxiety and discouragement of people everywhere, I feel like I can make a small contribution. Like the title says, I feel blessed to have lived a life of ''luck and wonder.''

I thank you so much for your kind words! From all your comments, you definitely sound like someone who'll enjoy the book. By the way, I'm loving a book by one of your favorite authors, Louis L'Amour's memoir, ''Education of a Wandering Man.'' I had no idea there were such parallels between our lives, and feel a real kinship with the guy. What a book! My best, Rich


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