Monday, December 29, 2008

WHO IS MILTON DYKES?

ANOTHER POST BY  MILTON:

For new readers to this site, I am writing since Kristy's battle with a GBM brain tumor and her passing on July 21. Kristy made me a romantic so I write to share christian love stories.


***


Singleness after 37 years of marriage brings one back to full circle. I am no longer two, but one. For 37 years I was joined in heart, spirit, faith, and flesh to a godly woman who partnered with me in life and ministry.

Now through death, two has become one again. 

So who is the one now left here? 

Who is Milton Dykes?

Before 7/21/08 I was a composite with a pretty redhead who made the picture more beautiful. We were truly one but that has all changed and I am wondering again just who is Milton Dykes?

I have not changed in purpose and life calling. I still feel called to preach and to pastor. I still have a great burden to see the lost saved and brought into the Kingdom. I want to see families grow in faith. I still want to make my life count by using my best energies, passion, creativity, sacrifice and commitment for Christ. I was called to preach before I met Kristy and that hasn't changed. My passion to preach has grown more intense and forceful.

My parents would say I was a good boy and teenager growing up and they are still alive and very connected to my life. I think they would say I am a good son and they are very proud of me. My daughters love me and have expressed their confidence and respect for me. I have many wonderful friends all over the world that I cherish and have who shown unusual kindness to me.

Who is Milton Dykes and what do I love? 

I love God, my Father, Jesus, Holy Spirit, my daughters, my grandchildren, my parents, my family, friends, Church, unsaved people, Country, apple pie, football, Alabama football, Jaguar football, church work, momma's fried chicken and pound cake, walking, bike riding, jogging, all sports, all food, mediam rare steaks, peanut butter, peanut butter, peanut butter, Sunday afternoon naps and football, travel, history, American history, church history, sports history, world history, writing, finishing writing, neatness, cleanliness, nice smelling perfume and cologne, HD TV, Southern Gospel music, contemporary christian music, classical music, big band music, country music, blue grass music, any kind of good music one can understand, preacher jokes, church jokes, lawyer jokes, funny real life stories, laughter, smiles, funny and clean pranks, family gatherings, family dinners, good friends, being with my closest friends, good movies, old movies, funny movies, clean movies, heart warming movies, clean Seinfeld programs, Bob Newhart shows, Andy Griffith Shows, and lots more.

I like to read the Bible, pray, prepare sermons, teach, mentor, learn, grow, strive for excellence, help others, live by the Golden Rule, help make life easier, get task completed, set goals, dream, brain storm, learn new and more efficient ways to accomplish tasks.

What do I dislike or hate?

I dislike fat on my body, sleeplessness, cooking, cleaning, gossip, cruel acts, ugly looks, spankings, rude people, Alabama Football losses, Jaguar loses, things that need repairing, computers that act cranky, poor losers, overly proud winners, sin, the results of sin, high mindedness, abortion, immorality, divorce, crime, stealing. lying, unfair taxation, communism, socialism, lying political parties, unrighteousness, unjust laws, close mindedness and unwilling to follow God in positive change, dirty cars, dirty house, dirty clothes, dirt, germs, cold, sickness, cancer, all health infirmities, faithlessness, disobedience to God, disrespect for things of God, godless laws, bad smell, stink in any form, bad jokes, and anything that opposes God, disloyalty, and unfairness in any form.

***

Oh, I will write about Wanda again in a few days. So more is coming about my new love. This is a godly new love that will amaze you and even those who are unsure about timing, how, and why. It is a pure love story that began with a voice from heaven. That is how it began for me. I will tell you more soon.

***

If you have something constructive and helpful to write, then I ask you, "Who and what do you see when you see Milton Dykes?"

20 Comments:

At 8:45 AM, Blogger Kate said...

We enjoy reading your story, Milton.

We also love it when you make a sardonic comment and follow it up with "HA!"

Kate & Ed.

 
At 9:15 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

On your "love" list, I notice that Twinkies are missing. I hope you haven't broken up with Twinkies. :)

-Heather

 
At 9:17 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Rebecca (Kristy's sister)
I read yesterday's blog early in the morning; I just now read the comments from yesterday.
Milton, Don and I attended Bartow First Assembly when you pastored there.
I know Wanda (and Jim) and their children very, very well. Don and I still attend Bartow 1st and so does Wanda. I see her all of the time. I can attest to the fact that there was no "attraction" of that sort; only a desire on your part and Kristy's to mentor Wanda and Jim in their walk with the Lord.
And it paid off. They serve(d) the Lord faithfully; they became very involved in the affairs of the church and especially missions. Their children are grown, married, have children, and best of all love the Lord with all of their hearts and are faithful and committed to their churches.
Julie and Jennifer played with Wanda's children while y'all were at Bartow 1st. We all fellowshipped together. And after you and Kristy left our church, Don and I continued to fellowship with Jim and Wanda.
If anyone went into our church right now and asked anyone there what they thought of Wanda, every response would be positive - seriously, there would not be one unkind or negative comment about Wanda.
Just yesterday, our pastor gave an opportunity for people with needs to go and pray. I saw Wanda go down and pray with another couple. She loves God; she does not just sit back; she has a heart for the things of God.
I know that you loved Kristy; there is no doubt about how strong and pure your love for each other was. Kristy knew you were a young man; she did not want you to live alone. Truthfully, I'm glad that the Lord led you to Wanda (and her to you). We have all known her, her character, her family.
I pray God's blessings on you and Wanda and your children and grandchildren. You are my "brother"; Wanda will be my sister-in-law.

 
At 10:09 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Milton said, "My parents would say I was a good boy and teenager growing up and they are still alive and very connected to my life. I think they would say I am a good son and they are very proud of me."

We are very proud of you, Milton. You have always been a good son and have lived a very exemplary life as a son, brother, husband, father, minister and child of God. However, that is not to say you are perfect.

Looking back and recalling some of his childhood days he required the normal training instructions and disciplining. For example, after starting to date girls he violated two date curfews. Yep, back in his young days there were family rules and dating curfews in his house. One while he was a high-school senior and the other after he was in college and home visiting us. Both events required his Dad giving him due process!! Even during our Kids college days there were dating curfews.........after all, Mom & Pop had to have our sleep. :-)

We have fallen in love with Wanda too, and look forward to her visits in our home. We are anticipating becoming acquainted with her extended family. I just suspect there is a lot of fellowship and fun coming down the road. :-)

So, Milton as I have told you many times before, keep your chin up and your nose clean even if it takes both cuffs.

All of your siblings, uncles, aunts, nephews, nieces and cousins loves you dearly.

Dad & Mom

 
At 10:31 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Who is Milton Dykes? He is a cousin who as a teenager knew that his cousin had made a bad decision and cared enough to tell his Dad, my Uncle, who drove from Anniston, AL to Birmingham, AL to have a one on one talk. Thank you both for your love and caring.

Who is Milton? A young teen who with four of his male cousins thought that because his Dad and our Uncle was the Youth Camp director thought we could sleep in and go to breakfast at our leasure. We did not try it again!! Yes, in the Dykes family Uncles and Aunts were free to discipline ALL who strayed. and we are all much better for it.

Love and continue to pray for you.

Donnie

 
At 10:33 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Milton, this has truly been a YEAR, has it not? It's good that we can't see the road ahead of us, as sometimes we'd choose to not travel it. Yet, in every fork and bend, no matter how difficult or painful, there are avenues of learning and growing. Oh, how you've grown this past year. Experiencing all you've had to "live" and the reality of such a tremendous "life-change" has had to be the most difficult task of your life.-------I was so happy to hear of Rebecca's support of you and Wanda. That says so much, here when there are those who may "read" into this painstaking journey or "suggest" indescretions of any kind. I know it has to HURT you and your family so badly, when you and they have traveled together down this treacherous road, with all the bumps and even detours. Your beautiful daughters who love their Daddy with all their hearts want only happiness, joy and contentment for you...and it hurts them as well to hear any negativism over this blog.-------In answer to your question, though we've never met face to face....I see you as one strong man, choosing to make life's decisions only when being led by the Master. I know beyond any shadow of doubt that you've placed your future in the Hands of the Master, and you've been on the Potter's wheel this past year......in fact, you remain there. He's molding you and perfecting you, each and every moment. You aren't out to destroy or diminish your life's testimony on a whim. You are man after God's own heart. I believe you awake each morning, crying out for direction and correction. That's how it is when you are a CHILD OF GOD...when your heart's desire is to be a vessel in HIS HANDS...."I'll go where you want me to go, Dear Lord...I'll be what you want me to be!" I KNOW, Milton, in my heart --- from staying abreast to this post and your lives for over a year and half, that your desire is to please God....and for that I am excited and thankful.

God bless you in 2009!
Cathy in Tennessee

 
At 11:56 AM, Blogger B. J. Robinson said...

I've never seen or met you, other than this blog and your pictures on it, but I'd say you were a devoted husband, you are a devoted father and grandfather, a man of God, a man to be admired and respected, and a man who keeps moving forward, for life must go on, and you'll make Wanda a great husband, and always keep Kristy in your heart. God bless you and your family.
In Christ,
Barb

 
At 11:59 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I don't know you except through this blog and I would say Milton is a twinkie eating, good man. A man who loves and cares for many people that he knows and many that he doesn't know (us bloggers!). A man that cared to share your heart, the joy and the pain, even when people weren't so nice.

I love to read the things that your family has to say about you and Wanda, because they are the ones that count. They are the ones that want you to be happy, but are not afraid to "straighten" you out if necessary. They love Wanda and God lead you to her...enough said!

In Jesus,
Evonne (Chico CA)

 
At 1:22 PM, Blogger B. J. Brooks said...

I see a Man, a Godly Man, going through the process of grieving and coming out on the other side.

As I read YOUR Blog I see so many of the steps that I went through after my husband's death, and I appreciate the fact that you are sharing each step. It will help others who find themselves in the same situation.

If it had not been for my sister who had gone through all the steps before me I would have been at a loss to the whys of so many of my emotions afterwards.

I might just tell your readers that one thing I learned was that we don't always grieve for what we had, but often the grief extends to what we wished we had. For instance many more years or a more loving relationship.

Many Blessings to you and your entire family,

B.J. Brooks
(Robinson)

 
At 2:42 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Milton, since reading your blog Here For Kristy, to me you have become a real
hero in the army of God. Your obedience to the guidance of the Holy Spirit is the real key to your future as it has been in the past.

My love for you extends far beyond the human relationship of aunt to nephew.
It is the love of God shed abroad in my heart by the Holy Spirit.

I perceive you as:
a man of men proclaiming God's Word
a shepard to the sheep
a searcher for the lost
a friend to the downcast
an encourager to the weak
a gifted writer
your living a exemplary Christian life bearing the fruit of the Holy
Spirit.

I humbly submit my synoptic list of who MILTON DYKES IS AND WHAT HE STANDS
FOR.

Love and prayers,
Aunt Amorette

 
At 7:21 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Who is Milton? Milton is my "older" brother-the one who told Mother and Daddy the "bowling alley was closed", the one who put his fist thru the wall instead of hitting me, the one mother would send to pick a good switch for the spanking that was coming, the one who interrogated my soon to be fiance, the one who has come to see about me when life threw bad curve balls, the one who ate the pork chop that caused the first argument with my new husband.....

Who is Milton? He's my brother...

Love you,

Sis

 
At 7:42 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

THE ONE WHO ATE THE PORK CHOP THAT CAUSED THE FIRST ARGUMENT WITH NORMA'S NEW HUSBAND???????????

Milton, how could you??????? Oh, the disgrace of it all!!!!!!! And, Norma....you FORGAVE him! Ha!

Cathy

 
At 7:56 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

During Kristy's illness, my twin often talked of her and wept at how unfair life seemed. She spoke of Kristy's unyielding faith in the time of storm. She spoke of you and your daughters, and how everyone exhibited a peace that only God can give.

Within the last few months, I've read only a handful of your blogs. But I can say, without hesitation, that you, Milton Dykes, are a man of faith. A man who seeks first the Kingdom of heaven. A man who has surrendered his will to God's holy purpose.

I'm glad you've chosen to share your journey with your cyperspace "friends," and I can't wait to hear more about the new woman in your life.

P.S. I agree with Heather: Twinkies already off the "love" list? Wow. Wanda must really be something else.

 
At 8:10 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I have been reading the blog for one year now. I am a 48 year old female with stage IV cancer. I was given no more than one year. I am still here 18 months later. I fine inspiration in your blog every single day! I am still praying for a miracle but know that in the event I should pass, I know that my husband will be okay. Life goes on. I ask you to say a little pray for me tonight. I have been praying for your family during this year. Milton, You are a wonderful man and God is taking care of you. God is good. He has blessed me through this cancer journey just like he has blessed your family.

 
At 9:00 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am sure I will never meet you but I feel like I know the family by reading this blog. I have admired you and your precious Kristy; I am glad to see you are still writng about her.

We all know words can hurt and cut deeply; but God knows who Milton Dykes is and that, with the knowledge that you have your family's blessing, is all that realy matters.

When do we get to see a picture of Wanda?

Blessings

 
At 9:18 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Terry Roberts (Kristy's brother) said...

Milton, I knew you before Kristy did. As one of your college buddies, I was impressed with your devotion to God, yet you were also "real" -- and a lot of fun. I was glad when you asked my sister for a date and thrilled when you asked her to marry you. I was glad that you would be not only my friend, but family. Over the years I've observed you in all kinds of circumstances -- highs and lows, victories and disappointments. I've always been impressed with the wise and measured way you've handled whatever life served up -- always determined to trust God, no matter what. You have distinguished yourself among your peers as a solid and gifted man of God. I'm glad you're still "real"-- and still a lot of fun. You're still my friend and you will always be part of my family. I haven't had the privilege of knowing Wanda as well as others in our family have known her, but from everything I hear from them, I am impressed. I truly rejoice that God has graciously brought someone into your life whose solid reputation as a godly woman is known far and wide. I don't mean to presume, but if you and Wanda decide to marry, I will welcome her into our family, too.

Your brother, Terry

 
At 6:43 AM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Milton,
I can see Kristy hugging Jesus and saying Thank You, Thank You, Thank You, for setting Milton & Wanda up. That is the spirit of Kristy. She did not ever want to see someone lonely. She loved people to be happy. And I know she is happy for you.
Who do I think Milton Dykes is? He is a wonderful Father & Grandfather. He is also a wonderful Preacher. He loves his Lord with all his heart. He is very tender hearted, and many of the negative comments have hurt him, even though he knows what he is doing is the will of God. Milton does not like to see people sad or unhappy. (I think he got some of that from Kristy). He was and will be a great honest loving husband. You have helped many of young couples with godly wise counsel before they married, and I know that you know what you & God are doing in your relationship with Wanda. I could go on & on, but I will stop there. Milton Dykes is Loved!!!

Love to you from Kristy's Blood Cousin, and your cousin through marriage.(that does not end at Death, you will always be my cousin).

 
At 12:23 PM, Blogger THOMBU1 said...

Brother Milton, I am so excited for you as God unfolds His next chapter in your life, a novel of truh and grace, and I am happy and honored to be just one jot or tittle in His wonderous Masterpiece He is writing on the open pages of your life. May God richly bless you and yours Beloved of His.
tom

 
At 9:12 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

i just finished reading all the past blogs , i see a lady wanda is in picture. i am confused i guess. How can it be so quickly that you are already in love with another woman ? its been a short time since kristy. and you and this new lady do not know each other that well ,other than being her Pastor. I wish you the best

 
At 10:33 PM, Anonymous Anonymous said...

Who is Milton? You're my hero! When I grow up I'm going to be just like you.

 

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