“Snow crunched beneath young Isaac's boots as he trudged up the mountain, the biting wind whipping his face. His best friend, a whirlwind of laughter and reckless abandon, bounded ahead, oblivious to the internal turmoil raging within Isaac.
The Brotherhood's recent age change forced a stark choice upon him. A life of faith, service, and sacrifice, or a life of passion, adventure, and self-discovery. The latter resonated deeply with his soul.
A poem, a gift from his grandmother, echoed in his mind:
"For it isn’t your father, or mother, or wife, Whose judgment upon you must pass, The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life Is the one staring back from the glass.
—Peter Dale Wimbrow Sr. (The Man In The Glass)
He couldn't live a lie. The thought of years away from mountains, art, music—the essence of himself—was unbearable. With a heavy heart, he chose a different path.
The years that followed were a whirlwind of self-discovery and rebellion. He immersed himself in art, music, and literature, exploring the world beyond his religious upbringing. He traveled, loved, and lived. Yet, a part of him yearned for the community and values that had shaped him.
As he aged, understanding dawned. His upbringing, despite limitations, had instilled a strong work ethic, purpose, and empathy. The values he once rejected now formed the foundation of his life.
The poem, once a source of conflict, became a guiding light. He looked into the mirror, not with fear or resentment, but with acceptance and gratitude. The man staring back was a product of his past, present, and future. A man who had the courage to break free, the resilience to endure, and the wisdom to appreciate the journey.
His friend's words, "Dare to look deeper" echoed in his mind. These words would inspire his first art collection later, "Dare to Look Deeper," a reflection of his own journey of self-discovery and acceptance.”
