Old Roommates & The "Surfdom"

To my readers,

We had no idea what we were getting into when we moved in together. Though this house was falling apart, we loved it.  It was perfect for three college students. This house was much more than a home to us. We called it the “Surfdom,” (misspelled originally by yours truly). Essentially, we were serfs, choosing to live a life in service to those around us. We lived by this verse:

“For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28, NLT.

The three of us each brought a unique aspect to the Surfdom. We were all similar to a character from Lord of the Rings. Marty Pike was our Gandalf.  He was older, wise, and yet had a fun loving heart. His wisdom and joy blessed me more than he ever would know.  There was me, the Gimli character- the comical relief. I was the little brother the other two picked on, though I deserved most of it.  I was young, physically and spiritually.  Simply put, I was a mess and they loved me anyway.

Then there was Eric Hicks.  He was our fearless leader, our Aragorn. There was no doubt that he was our leader physically and spiritually. One thing I’ll never forget about Eric is he was never scared to get his hands dirty.  He worked hard and passionately, putting a hundred and ten percent into everything he did. This same passion he had for work and life, he put into pursuing Jesus. 

At times, Eric was a father figure to me.  He held me to a high standard, even if it frustrated me to no end. He was hard on me, and today I’m thankful for it. He taught me to laugh while working hard. He also taught me to love the Lord with all I do. I remember Eric lived by a passage of scripture that was on his wall.  It read,

“May the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalm 19:14, NLT.

Through our many adventures, the three of us eventually become more than friends; we became brothers. Eventually we each went our own ways and moved out of the Surfdom.  Though we all keep in touch, today I woke to a text message from Eric that simply said this: “I am a daddy.” 

Sadly, I was asleep and groggy when I received it. I didn’t read it right away. I later woke up and when I realized what Eric had sent, I literally teared. 

Eric, let me take a moment to say: Congratulations!  You found a woman willing to put up with you this long. I’m kidding, but honestly I’ve seen first hand how God has used you to shape and mold me. I know without a shadow of a doubt that you will be an amazing father and husband. I have already seen you be an amazing father figure and leader to me and countless others. I know that you will lead your family in a manner that pleases God.  I know that as your daughter grows up, she will date only quality guys.  I say this because she will have your character to see and know what a real Godly man looks like. Charity, thank you for putting up with Eric.  Thank you for being an amazing woman to him. I can physically hear in his voice the love he has for you every time he mentions you. Baby Abigail, you have an amazing daddy. Take care of him for me. Eric, may your words and meditations continue to please our Lord. 

Simply,

Tex G.M. Rule

“May the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.” Psalm 19:14, NLT.

P.S.) This photo is for you-