Flash Page 20

  At its core, what would you say the story of Flash is about?

  I believe the story of Flash, my raggedy stray donkey, and of our family who took him in, is a story about God showing up in everyone’s lives in unexpected ways. It’s about being aware that wisdom truly “shouts in the streets” as Proverbs 1:20 describes, and that what we need to do is learn to listen.

  I think most of us simply miss the fact that He is reaching out to us, because we’re looking for great beams of light and angelic choirs to announce something grandiose. We forget to look at the everyday interruptions, the ordinary occurrences, and the tasks that fill our lives as opportunities to experience God’s love and care. I hope that all who read the book will look at their lives in a fresh way and see that the “donkeys” that show up are actually extraordinary gifts in disguise.

  What’s new with Flash and your family since you completed the book?

  I’m so excited to say that Flash has a new buddy—Henderson (aka Henry). He is an adorable minidonkey that we adopted last year. His name comes from the original log-in at the rescue facility, where he was identified as “Henderson #10,” the tenth donkey in a roundup in Henderson County, Texas. We simply had to keep the name! He and Flash do everything together, vying for attention (and treats) and generally just enjoying each other’s company. It’s so fun to see them together!

  Our daughters, Lauren and Meghan, have each had a baby girl, and our son, Grayson, is finishing up his studies at Texas A&M. Life has changed a lot in the past year or two, and I think I’ve adjusted to it now. I’m writing a children’s book and creating art in my studio—two things I love to do. I’m also busy on Pinterest pinning photos of the vintage camper I’m dreaming of having one day!

  P.S.—Flash started obedience school (otherwise known as donkey-owner training). He is learning to walk on a lead, follow commands, and be loaded into a trailer. He is a (mostly) willing and happy student. I’ll keep you posted on his progress. This may take a while.

  Follow Flash on FlashTheDonkey.com, Facebook.com/FlashTheDonkey, and Twitter @FlashTheDonkey.

  Acknowledgments

  In bringing this book to life, I’m deeply indebted to many people who have made it possible . . .

  Priscilla Shirer, my dear, precious friend. Thank you for hiring me to paint Jackson’s nursery so long ago. It was a phone call that changed my life. You continually bless me with your encouragement, your insights, and your spur-of-the-moment movie invitations. You are the world’s best cheerleader. And Bible teacher.

  Bridgette Hawks, my friend and Southern belle. Thank you for letting me share the tender parts of our story, and for being a late bloomer with me. I’m grateful you put that ad in the paper for the charming farmhouse. When we answered it, we got way more than a house—we got an amazing friendship with you and Steve. What a gift.

  Ruth Samsel, my incredible agent. Your energy and excitement for Flash made this whole project fun. I knew from your first text that we would make a great team. You seem to know just when to push me, and just when to send a little care package to keep my spirits up. It’s an honor to be part of William K. Jensen Literary Agency.

  Sarah Atkinson, my acquisitions editor at Tyndale Momentum, who fell hard for Flash from the first moment she heard of him. Your commitment to seeing this story become a real book made me believe in it. Thank you to the talented team at Tyndale House Publishers for all of your hard work: Jan Long Harris, Sharon Leavitt, Jillian VandeWege, Nancy Clausen, Cassidy Gage, Maggie Rowe, and Stephen Vosloo. It really tickled me to think about you sitting around together at the office, talking about my donkey. Oh, how I wish Flash could have known he was being discussed in conference rooms—by important people! Then again, he’d never let me forget it.

  Bonne Steffen, my editor who made my manuscript sparkle. Sorry for all the sentences that started with And and But. But somehow you helped me make changes that kept my voice, only better. And you let me keep a few of my “choice” words. You are a master.

  Melody Johnson, aka The Donkey Whisperer. Thank you for your expertise and help with Flash along the way.

  I’m grateful for my parents, Tom and Anne Rasmussen, who taught me to see past the “interruptions” in life to find what God might be doing behind the scenes. Your faith and example still inspire me every single day. Thank you for your prayers and love.

  Lauren and Robert Penn, Meghan and Nathan Miller, and Grayson Ridge: You guys always make me feel on top of the world with your excitement for this book, and for my dreams. I’m very blessed, and more than a little lucky, to be your mom.

  Tommy: Thank you for stopping to help a stray donkey one night. It’s just so typical of you, and one more reason I love you more than words can say.

  Lastly, Flash. Thanks for showing up when you did. You were just what we needed.

  Discussion Questions

  http://tyndal.es/flashintro

  Scan the QR code with your phone or visit the link below for a special message to book groups from Rachel and Flash!

  Have you had a “donkey in the driveway” moment—a time when something unexpected disrupted your life and routine? What was it, and how did you respond?

  The county sheriff dismisses Flash as “worthless.” Do you agree that a living creature can be worthless? Why or why not? Consider some examples from history, the Bible, or your own experiences in which a person (or creature) unvalued by society came to make an impact on the world. What characteristics (if any) do they share?

  Flash’s “ears were a key part of his communication—a silent form of expression that delighted us.” What could the Ridges tell about Flash’s mood by watching his ears? Think of a friend or family member to whom you’re close. What nonverbal cues might you notice that show what that person is feeling—things a casual acquaintance might miss?

  In chapter 2, Rachel contrasts the names she calls herself (e.g., inadequate, afraid, failure) with the names God gives her (e.g., precious, found, enough). What would your own names be? Write the God-given names on a card and place it where you can see it every day.

  Think of a time when you, like Flash shivering outside his barn or Rachel suffering a tragic loss, have needed shelter. What were the circumstances? Where was your refuge—the place or people who brought you in out of the cold? What did you learn about yourself, God, and your relationships from that difficult time?

  What changed for Flash after he had the opportunity to run with horses? What longings or new adventures do you want to pursue in your own life? Does something need to change in your circumstances to make these dreams a reality—and can you begin running after them in some way today?

  One of Rachel’s childhood teachers discouraged her in a way that made a big impact on her life and future. Think back to your own childhood: Did you have a teacher or role model who either affirmed or dismissed your dreams? If the former, how did that encouragement shape your life? If the latter, what changed when you were told you couldn’t do it? In what ways does Rachel’s own story show that it’s never too late to try again?

  What characteristics do Rachel and Tom show in their endeavors—whether it’s learning the ropes at a new business, facing life’s challenges, or adopting a stray donkey? Where in the process do they most struggle, and where do you see them thrive?

  Consider the many different friendships Rachel describes in the book. Which one resonates with you most and why? If you were to write your life story, which of your own friendships would be most significant to include? How have you learned from each other and grown together?

  Think of your own pet, either one you have now or a beloved one from your past. If he or she had a “To-Do” list like Flash’s, what would be included on it? How has this animal, quirks and all, enriched your life—either through joy or sorrow?

  “It’s safe to say that Flash welcomes change,” Rachel says, “just as long as nothing is different or altered in any way.” How does his attitude toward change contrast with that of others in the b
ook—Rachel and Tom, Bridgette, even Beau? Who are you personally most like and why?

  What are some unique things that animals can teach us about love?

  About the Author

  While tole painting Christmas gifts one year, RACHEL ANNE RIDGE discovered a love for art and inadvertently launched a new career. In 1999, she took her paintbrushes and began creating murals and faux finishes in the booming Dallas–Fort Worth area. When the small business started growing, her husband, Tom, joined her. Together, they have expanded into large-scale corporate art, graphic design, wayfinding, and custom artwork. Along the way, they have raised three children; journeyed through loss, failures, and successes; and adopted a stray donkey who showed up on their doorstep and never left.

  Rachel began blogging as a means of sharing daily encouragement with other women. Writing about her efforts to create a “soft place to land” for her busy family made a natural connection with an online community of readers who love her gentle wisdom and humor. Since 2006, HomeSanctuary.com has been her blog home, and you can also keep up with her at RachelAnneRidge.com.

  Rachel wrote for and managed Priscilla Shirer’s blog, GoingBeyond.com, for two years and contributes to other blogs on the topics of parenting, organization, faith, and creativity. She is an engaging speaker who loves to share funny, often poignant stories that touch the heart and reveal God’s love in unexpected ways.

  Rachel lives in Texas with her husband, Tom, and now, two donkeys.