Few Christian books have comforted and strengthened believers like Hind’s Feet on High Places (1955), Hannah Hurnard’s beloved allegory of spiritual transformation. It tells the story of Much-Afraid, a timid young woman called by the Chief Shepherd to leave the Valley of Fear and ascend the High Places — the place of joy, strength, and union with Him.

I love 658 Monroe Avenue because it was our home. Still is, in some ways. When I dream, I am often there — in that solid, wood-framed house tucked between the city and the church. The walls held laughter, prayer, and the hum of hymns that filled the evenings. If every place has a spirit, this one was wrapped in Scripture and song.

Every believer has a season when faith meets the real world.For me, it began in 1958 with my father’s accident and the long road that followed — through teenage rebellion, first love, vocational turns, and an unexpected call to Canada.This chapter, Prequel II: Growing Up – Train Up a Child (Proverbs 22:6), tells how God’s hand was shaping me even when I couldn’t see it. Have you ever looked back and seen His fingerprints on your detours?