Stories By Johnny

I knew she’d wait for me here. The ocean was the only place where she could escape from the world and not give a damn about what others thought of her. She could be herself through the brutality of the ocean, and if she wanted to feel confident enough, she’d immerse herself in its electric power. It was all about respect and she knew when to give it. 

Then everything came crashing down two years ago today. The full moon illuminated the entire west coast and you thought you could outsmart its force. The breaking of the waves captivated your soul like a mermaid’s silky love song hypnotizing its sailors to their death. If only had you listened to me, if only we hadn’t fought, you’d still be here today holding on to your yellow surfboard. 

As I take these small steps into the water I am scared of what is to become of me. One thing’s for certain; the yellow surfboard keeps me calm and I know you are near. I want to feel that very same courage and electric power that had once pushed you towards your dreams. I’ve always wondered if this yellow surfboard had a magical purpose for you to feel courageous and go into the deep end. Rest assured that when I get there, I will remind the ocean of your power, and to respect and honor your legacy.  Lily, my soul surfer, here’s to your courageous heart. 

The original writing can be found at FromEyetoInk.com

Anyone remember Disney Pixar’s short film “La Luna”? It was paired with Pixar’s “Brave” and released in 2012. The story follows a young Genoese boy named Bambino who embarks on a midnight boat trip with his father and grandfather to gather fallen stars on the moon’s surface. I believe this to be their livelihood.

“La Luna” is an incredible short film with an extraordinary message; BE YOURSELF. It’s about bravery, going on a journey, making your own choices and respecting the views of past generations. Throughout the story, Bambino’s father and grandfather quarrel with each other on how Bambino should wear his cap (a coming-of-age symbolism) and what kind of broom he should sweep the stars with. But when a giant star crashes on the moon and too heavy to move, Bambino takes a hammer, taps it and the star bursts apart into hundred of smaller stars. Trusting his instincts, the boy takes a rake instead of the either man’s brooms and gets to work. ??✨

I encourage you to start this week off with being your AUTHENTIC self. God thought of you before you were born and designed unique skills in you, that one day you would use to make a difference in the world. Bambino knew what best worked for him based on the skills he was equipped with and took initiative. Maybe, as you’re reading this, is a confirmation that you should start taking initiative in life so you can get where you need to be. Just like Bambino, take the rake and sweet the opportunities your way.

Fun Fact — There are three new games at Disney’s California Adventure and one of them is based on “La Luna” where you can collect stars as they float and you can win some adorable prizes. Go check it out when you visit!

“You will give the people of Earth an ideal to strive towards. They will race behind you, they will stumble, they will fall. But in time, they will join you in the sun, Kal. In time, you will help them accomplish wonders.” — Jor-El (Superman’s father)

Happy Friday! I encourage you to tap into your fullest potential, blast off into the possibilities and beyond!! God has already designed a path for you and your purpose in life is to keep discovering who you are meant to be. Most of you know I’m a Superman fan, so I’m leaving you this epic quote to inspire you to create change and keep transforming lives! We are in this together and I am no better than you! Let’s work toward our goals! 

On June 3rd, 2010, I had a dream I was walking with Jesus in Heaven.

It was an ordinary day, just like any other. No foreshadowing of the life-altering experience I would have that night. I had recently become a born-again Christian, and my faith in God was still quite fresh and new, but strong. That night, I had a dream.

I was standing in the midst of a vast, bright space, surrounded by what looked like clouds. I looked down at my feet and couldn’t see anything, but I could sense I was standing on something solid. I had no idea where I was, but what I did know was that this place gave me an overwhelming sense of peace and comfort. I looked down again to make sure I wasn’t going to fall and proceeded to take a few steps forward. I noticed a figure standing in front of me, only a few feet away. I looked at the figure’s feet, and I knew it was Jesus Christ who stood before me.

I can’t quite explain how I knew it was Christ, but there was an overwhelming sense of familiarity I experienced. I was fearless, doubtless, and full of peace. Like he is so regularly depicted, he wore sandals and a white robe reaching his ankles. He practically glowed. As I lifted my head to see His face, I was blinded by a radiant light. It was as if I was looking right into the sun. Unable to see him through the incredible illumination, I was able to feel Him – His presence – through the warmth of that light. He extended his right hand to me, and I took it. We walked briefly together, and all I could see was pure white. I remember feeling as if time didn’t exist where we were, but that each powerful moment there felt eternal.

At some point, I had to question whether I had just died, but it was a fleeting thought. What I did know was that I was in a perfect place, my loved ones were being taken care of, and that I was with my Savior.

As easily as I had slipped into this perfect place, I was drifting back out. Before I knew it, I was back in a dark room, my alarm clock’s digital numbers glowing in the background. I was still half asleep, because I felt that sensation of floating back into consciousness. My right hand was outstretched towards the ceiling, still filled with Christ’s hand. I burst into tears and cried, “No! I want to be with You! Please, I don’t want to be here. I want to go back with You!” While I was crying, I felt such an intense joy fill my heart. It was a kind of love and happiness that I had never experienced before. After several minutes, I prayed. I thanked God for the amazing revelation I had witnessed.

The next day, I shared my experience with friends and family who were overjoyed at hearing my story, and that I was willing to share such a personal experience with them. I believe God gave me this gift so that I might spread the good news with a fearless heart and an understanding of how loving He is.

Heaven is real. God is real.