"It can often be difficult to understand the Lord's intentions. Why he chooses to do what he does." Thomas said, sympathetically. "And in grief, we often forget that he does watch over us. I suppose what I'm getting at is that perhaps it was always meant to be - perhaps, he understood that you would need to endure this loss, before you could raise yourself up, and become a better man because of it."

"It can often be difficult to understand the Lord's intentions. Why he chooses to do what he does." Thomas said, sympathetically. "And in grief, we often forget that he does watch over us. I suppose what I'm getting at is that perhaps it was always meant to be - perhaps, he understood that you would need to endure this loss, before you could raise yourself up, and become a better man because of it."

"Maybe he did," Charlie answered.

"Now." he continued, as he looked back down to the contract. "If it's alright with you, I might seal this in an envelope... and I should hope that I won't need to break that seal anytime soon."

"Go right ahead, Reverend. Knowing that I have someone else to be accountable other than my family will be a good reminder for me when I'm tempted again. It'll remind that I have to answer to God as well."

Thomas smiled at Charlie, rising from his seat in the pews and folding the contract in his hands. "This is the right choice, son. Remember, that nothing will impossible with God. Confide in him with your prayers, and hold his strength in yourself. You'll come through this, and better for it."

"I hope so and I hope I won't have to come here again with regards to this problem," he paused for a moment as he thought of something else. "If you don't mind could you pray for me as I am thinking of changing a few other things. All of this has gotten me thinking about where my life is headed and what I should be doing."

He got up and held his hand, "I'd like to thank you for your time, Reverend and if there's anything I can do for you or the church, just let me know."