My last day here (9.14.26), I decided to write on the dock. Sunny morning, wisps of fog still on the lake.

I finished one chapter of my book. I had thirteen in mind. Halfway through my time here at the lake, I pared that back to five chapters. Then, I finally - at least - had to get one done. 

Maybe it was the hardest one: "The Essence of Jesus." I could go on and on. I had to keep cutting words. Then more would grow into the vacated space. I have thirteen pages in 10-point font, single-lined, with extra wide and tall margins, some 11,000 words. It's done. I would say, less than 90% but at least 80%. Now, I want to send it out to my friends for review and feedback (if you want to see it, let me know at awjootp@gmail.com).

I feel accomplished today. I'm going to take the victory.

I learned how to write. Or how to write a book. I wrote pieces each day, too, like this one; more than 40 posts on my blog. Read them, if you'd like at eugeneharnett.com/blog. They are timeless. One principle I like to keep is not dating my writing with shelf items of events, like saying "last week" or "this year," without actually dating them, because those times quickly get hung up and faded.

I'm grateful for this time. This is a beautiful place in Willow, Alaska. Waterfowl of various kinds: Canadian geese, mallards, loons, cranes with long, red necks, swallows.

Time to assess. Time to pray. I spent a lot of time in prayer and study of Scripture. Such a short sabbatical of 70 days.

Another trip to Japan and Korea at the end of this month, September of 2026. A bunch of paperwork to do between now and then, including my extended tax submissions.

The water is cool. The air, too. Smooth lake this morning. It looks flowing, reflecting the sun. A train is echoing in the distance. Birds are talking here and there. I'm in no hurry. ​My handwriting is sloppy though.

The leaves are not quite golden, just tinges. Today is a good day to sit quietly on the dock, in the sun, in peace, in love with creation and the Creator.

Time in a lolly.

Reposing.


10:28 AM Monday, September 14, 2026.