One of my favorite stories in the world is a short chapter taken from Austrian author Felix Salten’s incredible 1923 novel Bambi, a Life in the Woods. The story of the little deer itself is quite a bit darker and melancholy than the Disney movie, but if you find inspiration in anthropomorphic literature, I highly recommend it. The tale is pure, moral, sterling and virtuous — all things I find rare and unfamiliar among 95% of modern novels on today’s shelves.
Every year about the time the autumn leaves start falling, I dig Bambi out of my bookshelf because of a chapter concerning two introspective oak leaves entitled, Winter. It’s poignant and beautiful and I wilt and smile at the same time because Salten’s words benevolently remind me that life is fragile and even the smallest moments should be cherished dearly. I like how subjective and sobered I feel after reading the chapter. I can’t wait to read it to my son or daughter someday when he/she inquires about the subject of death (and even more excited to further explain that death isn’t the end for followers of Christ) but that’s another story.
A brilliant radio dramatization of the chapter recorded in the late 50′s by Ted Strasser:
The leaves were falling from the great oak at the meadow’s edge. They were falling from all the trees. One branch of the oak reached high above the others and stretched far out over the meadow. Two leaves clung to its very tip.
“It isn’t the way it used to be,” said one leaf to the other.
“No,” the other leaf answered, “So many of us have fallen off tonight we’re almost the only ones left on our branch.”
“You never know who’s going to be next,” said the first leaf. “Even when it was warm and the sun shone, a storm or a cloudburst would come sometimes and many leaves were torn off, though they were still young. You never know who’s going to be next.”
“The sun seldom shines now,” sighed the second leaf, “and when it does, it gives us no warmth. We must have warmth again.”
“Can it be true,” said the first leaf, “can it really be true that others come to take our places when we’re gone, and after them still others, and more and more?”
“It is really true,” whispered the second leaf. “We can’t even begin to imagine it, it’s beyond our powers.”
“It makes me very sad,” added the first leaf.
They were silent a while.
Then the first leaf said quietly to herself, “Why must we fall?”
The second leaf asked, “What happens to us when we’ve fallen?”
“We sink down.”
“What is under us?”
The first leaf answered, “I don’t know. Some say one thing, some another, but nobody knows.”
The second leaf asked, “Do we feel anything, do we know anything about ourselves when we’re down there?”
The first leaf answered, “Who knows? Not one of all those down there has ever come back to tell us about it.”
They were silent again. Then the first leaf said tenderly to the other, “Don’t worry so much about it, you’re trembling!”
“That’s nothing,” the second leaf answered, “I tremble at the least thing now. I don’t feel so sure of my hold as I used to.”
“Let’s not talk anymore about such things,” said the first leaf.
The other replied, “No, we’ll let be. But — what else shall we talk about?” She was silent, but went on after a little while. “Which of us will… which of us will go first?”
“There’s still plenty of time to worry about that,” the other leaf assured her. “Lets remember how beautiful it was, how wonderful, when the sun came out and shone so warmly that we thought we’d burst with life. Do you remember? And the morning dew and the mild and splendid nights?”
“Now the nights are dreadful,” the second leaf complained, “and there is no end to them.”
“We shouldn’t complain,” said the first leaf gently. “We’ve outlived many, many others.”
“Have I changed much?” asked the second leaf shyly but determinedly.
“Not in the least,” the first leaf assured her. “You only think so because I’ve got to be so yellow and ugly. But it’s different in your case.”
“You’re fooling me,” the second leaf said.
“No, really!” the first leaf exclaimed eagerly, “believe me, you’re as lovely as the day you were born. Here and there may be a little yellow spot, but it’s hardly noticeable and only makes you handsomer, believe me.”
“Thanks,” whispered the second leaf, quite touched. I don’t believe you, not altogether, but I thank you because you’re so kind. You’ve always been so kind to me. I’m just beginning to understand how kind you are.
“Hush,” said the other leaf, and kept silent herself, for she was too troubled to talk anymore.
Then they were both silent. Hours passed.
A moist wind blew, cold and hostile through the treetops.
“Ah, now,” said the second leaf, “I…”
And then her voice broke off. She was torn from her place and spun down.
Winter had come.
Beautiful as always, Adam. :) I just so accidentally clicked on your blog I have tabbed on my internet, and noticed you had just posted this. So cool! Love you, can’t wait until you come back to SF!
This is so sweet and yet quite sad. Your blog posts always make me think about life in ways I wouldn’t be able to come up with on my own. Thank you for being an inspiration. I think I will go buy Bambi this winter now…
I remember reading this last year when you posted it. It’s such a beautiful story and the recording makes it feel even more whimsical and poignant. I think I’ll go find the book now, it sounds like my kind of read. =)
adam, this is wonderful! a close family member of mine just passed away and this helps soo much! I think I’ll pick up the real Bambi this fall! keep writing (: it’s beautiful!
You constantly blow my mind. You’ve got a perspective that I can’t seem to wrap my head around. Thanks. You help me so so much.
Wow. What a melancholy but beautiful excerpt…. In less than an hour, one of my beloved dogs is going to be passed on into God’s loving care… yet I can’t help but grieve so deeply…
Thank you for this. It’s brought me some perspective in this rough time.
This was my favorite post from last year–the recording almost made me cry. Autumn is my favorite season
I didn’t write enough. :) Adam, you are the reason for so much of my inspiration. I am continually blown away and baffled by your incredible outlook on the world, which is so refreshing to a fifteen year old trying to figure out her place in life, and her relationship with God. Thank you for being so original. You make me dream things I never knew I could. Thank you can not suffice, but as i sit here trying to condense everything i want to say, it seems that it will have to do. So, from the bottom of my heart to the top of the could I dream of in Heaven, thank you.
I love reading your blog entries, Adam. It’s like a keyhole into your soul.
Thank you for sharing your incredible gift with us.
I remember this from last year. I understood it sort of back then, but now it all makes sense. We also discussed this in my English class, how seasons represent life. I’m now thinking I should’ve brought this is but it’s kind of sad…
That was absolutely beautiful Adam. :) One day i will read this to my my kids too. <3
I can’t thank you enough! That was a beautiful text and I loved it! You are all kinds of dreamy :) Don’t ever change please, I wish I could meet you.. maybe someday =) Your secret and passionate lover =)
Im glad my life isnt over when i die cuz i will live eternally with my saviour in heaven :) and with you!!! :D i wish i could could talk to you about that it would be so much fun! :) I hope you will right about that other story for me to read it make me happy knowing that my favorite singer is a christian and i will someday get to live with him in heaven. :] thanks again adam!
You are so inspiring. You’re writing is so lovely, and your perspective is like a breath of fresh air.
And thank you, you’ve got me so inspired, I think I could finally sketch something.
I’m going to share this story with my goddaughter when she’s old enough. You are so amazing.
This is gorgeous, I caught myself reading out loud along with the recording :)
mmm… i must be in a different time zone… it’s six pm on october 24… weird…
That was cool. So was it you or a story that somebody else wrote?? Because if it was you my mouth is dropping open.
My ‘b’ is sticky. It’s really annoying.
BBBBBBBBBBBBBB
My beloved mum went to heaven so suddenly 9 august. Thankyou for this post.
The background music is wonderful–second movement of Dvorak’s 9th symphony :) It fits the mood so perfectly!
Isn’t it funny how everything in life is a picture of the bigger picture?
Truly breathtaking, Adam. You’re a very inspired person, and God allows you to use your wonderful, beautiful talents to inspire other people.
You’re so blessed, and you bless everyone who is lucky enough to have the chance to hear you.
Gorgeous as usual. I can always expect a real treat when I read your blog, and I eagerly wait for every post.
This inspired me to enjoy the beautiful life I have.
Oh yeah, I’m gonna go check out that book from my library now.
<3
gorgeous.
I keep thinking, this fall, about how amazing it is that the leaves are most vibrant and beautiful in death.
Definitely reading this story to my kids… one day.
Thought of you last night (Reading the new book “Indescribable” by Louie Giglio)
You would love it (reminds me of Galaxies and The Lighted Carriage and the Starlit Night) and if I could somehow get it to you as a Christmas present, I would :)
Thanks for always leaving us with beautiful ideas :)
I loved how you also put this on your blog last year as well, I think about the same time as well. I love this story, it makes me kinda sad but not in a bad way. Like that bitter sweet kind of sad.
My favorite part is the ending ““Ah, now,” said the second leaf, “I…”
And then her voice broke off. She was torn from her place and spun down” It always makes me cry… If I ever see the original Bambi I’m sure I’ll buy it.
Thank you for adding the radio reading of it, that made it even better (that’s what I think) I hope that when your children ask you about death and you read this to them, that they understand how fragile life really is. I always hope to cherish the moments. Thank you.
I think this is my favorite post of all! I love all of your posts, but this one was amazing…I’m going to find that book, read it, and absolutly love it! Thanks so much for giving me a book to add to my reading list!
Kels
I’m really glad you posted this, Adam. I remember reading it before, in an earlier post from you, but it’s as beautiful and poignant as ever. I really need to read the book.
Thanks again, and God bless,
- Joel
Dear Adam,
This is brilliant.
I feel so wistful after reading/listening to this.
For those of us who believe in Christ and have put our trust in Him, this isn’t our home, and though death is sad for those who we leave behind, we ourselves are going home.
I must admit that I don’t want to die, not just yet, anyway, but Jesus has it all planned, my life as well as my death. I sometimes wonder what it will be like. Barlow Girl touches on this in their song ‘Beautiful Ending’
“Tell me, what is our ending? Will it be beautiful? So beautiful.
Will my life find me by Your side? Cause Your love is beautiful, so beautiful”
The anthem of my heart rings out and cries to be like Christ in every way.
Stay encouraged, you have encouraged me in many ways through your music and blog,
Madeline <3
Now I am able to look at even leaves in a completely different way. Thank you.
Dear Adam,
This is brilliant.
I feel so wistful after reading/listening to this and it is bittersweet.
For those of us who believe in Christ and have put our trust in Him this isn’t our home, and though death is sad for those who we leave behind, we ourselves are going home.
I must admit that I don’t want to die, nor do I think I am ready, not just yet, anyway, but Jesus has it all planned, my life as well as my death. I sometimes wonder what it will be like. Barlow Girl touches on this in their song ‘Beautiful Ending’
“Tell me, what is our ending? Will it be beautiful? So beautiful.
Will my life find me by Your side? Cause Your love is beautiful, so beautiful”
The anthem of my heart rings out and cries to be like Christ in every way. May He be seen in me.
Stay encouraged, dear Adam, you have encouraged me in many ways through your music and blog.
Your sister in Christ,
Madeline
That was extremely beautiful. I often find myself cold to the questions
Like. Too cynical and foolish to really stop and think. You always pull me back to reality Adam, MAKE me think about these things. You make me roll like a steamer in the night just thinking.
And apparently tonight, I have been made to stop and think again. I’m and avid reader though,perhaps I should check this out from the library.
And another thing, I won’t get to, but I pray that I get to overhear you reading this to your son/daughter from across the room. I’d probably start crying :)
So happy that you posted this :D I too, remember you posting this last year… but everytime I read this, my mind just starts reeling, questions pop up and I just think…
Thank you, and God bless,
-Meghan
I really like it, but…Didn’t you already write this?
Adam,
I can still recall the time you posted this last year. Even so, the beauty is still not lost. I can’t stop listening to the radio reading of the tale over and over. I find it very touching and inspiring.
~Stephanie
This really makes me want to appreciate life a little more. I think of myself and a good friend of mine as the two leaves, and that thought is both painful and beautiful.
But what I find most beautiful of this blog is when you said this, ” … and even more excited to further explain that death isn’t the end for followers of Christ.”
That was touching. Keep up the faith! =D
Adam, hoping you read all of these comments, this was just as inspiring and touching as all of the rest of your posts. Love you dearly!!! <3 :)
Love,
Kayla <3 ^_^
Beautiful. I think you have inspired me to purchase Bambi. (:
A beautiful blog entry. And you are right; for those who follow Christ, death isn’t the end, it’s the beginning. :)
Wow. That was amazing. I was mesmerized.
Im pretty sure u might’ve posted this awhile ago (like a few years), because I remember it clearly………. I love it, though, and im glas I got a chance to read it again.
1. If you’ve never watched Mr. Magorium’s Wonder Emporium, rent it now.
2. “And for us this is the end of all the stories, and we can most truly say that they all lived happily ever after. But for them it was only the beginning of the real story. All their life in this world and all their adventures in Narnia had only been the cover and title page: now at last they were beginning Chaper One of the Great Story which no one on earth has read: which goes on forever: in which every chapter is better than the one before.”
The Last Battle by C.S. Lewis
Hey Adam! I love reading your blogs and I think we have much in common! Check out my blog at: http://saaraajuddha.blogspot.com/ :)
Adam, I just hope you know how beautiful and inspiring you are yourself! Reading your blogs always brings me back to what really matters in life: pleasing our Savior in all the He does in my life that I usually ignore. This blog is no exception, and now I too am excited to when I’m one day married and have my own children, to read this story to them and explain to them the beauty of salvation just like you are excited also. You’re truly a gem Mr. Young; thanks for proclaiming the truth everywhere you go. You’re such a wonderful influence to me, and I wish I had your boldness. Love you and your music,
Rae :)
thank you adam! ive recently had a fear of death and losing my faith. But youre helping me find it again :)
That was beautiful, Adam. You are such an amazing person who sees the world in such a beautiful way. Thank you for sharing this with us. I love the melancholy feel of it all!
Oh… This is what I hate about living in the other hemisphere… This kind of text doesn’t make sense here, where all the flowers are blooming and the trees are so full of leaves that have just been born… I love the song Pepperint Winter, but half of the lyrics don’t mean much to me because there’s no chance I can get 45 pairs of socks for Christmas…
Anyway, I always enjoy your posts and I spend the whole week wondering what you’re going to write about on the next one…
I loved the whole meaning behind this one, it’s a lovely way to think about life and death, and learning to enjoy every moment…
Lots of love!
The story of the two leaves left tears in my eyes! And I never cry!!!! It was so sad but so, so I dunno words can’t explain it, well amazing!!!
Thanks for shareing that! And I would love to get my hands on that book! Sounds wonderful!
May God go with you always :)
~love Laurianna
Dear Adam,
How beautiful! That was such a melancholy, but lovely story-or part of a story. I must go search out Bambi now; it seems like a wonderful book. What a sobering read, I really needed that. Thanks for the thought-provoking post today! God bless, and I’m praying.
Love,
Madeline
Absolutely beautiful and starkly sobering.
love the post. beautiful story with deeper meaning than a lot of people will see. and I love the music “Going Home” playing in the background. Definitely adds to the message. God Bless
Oh my. That was beautiful…I think you and I are kindred spirits, Adam – the concept of leaves falling, mirroring our idea of death – it makes me long to live in a place where the leaves change colour. And I love how you talk about teaching your future children about Heaven – it’s so sweet, that I can’t wait til I can do the same with my own. Hopefully, I’ll be able to use such lovely words to convey God’s truth.
I’ve been reading your blog for a long time now, and you are an amazing writer – maybe someday I’ll be as good as you :)
I’m kind of speechless right now so I’ll just say that was touching as always and thanks for your posts and I love you Adam Young. You really truly have changed my life for the better.
My reaction:
1. Wow, where did you get this?
2. I think thousands of people to some degree live vicariously through you, Adam. You have so much to offer through your life experience. I know this may seem ironic to you considering that you hadn’t traveled much before you became well known, but it’s true. In all likelihood, more true than I realize, since all I know about you is what little glimpses I’ve caught through your blog, your facebook, your songs and the occasional youtube video of an interview you’ve given.
3. You’re doing the right thing.
caveat: I wasn’t being naive. by my above # 1, I was wondering where you found the recording online (if you did).
:) Thanks for taking the time to write.
lovely.
as someone above mentioned it’s hard to relate when you’re in the southern hemisphere and it’s blazing hot outside as we bloom into spring, but i guess that’s another part of the story that the leaves can tell.
Dear Adam,
Inspired and touched, I have no words at the moment that can truly describe how I feel about this. Its simple and beautiful and it made me think with insightfulness when I was becoming close to forgetting about what matters most.We could fall any time, and am I doing what I would like to be doing or thinking what I would like to be thinking when I do fall? Once again, you never cease to encourage or inspire me.
I’ve read Bambi several times and I love it, though I haven’t read it for quite a while. I like how you contrasted it with modern literature; I think the older books, especially children’s, are better and more wholesome.
I read Bambi when I was about 10/11 years old, and I loved every page of it. However, this chapter about the leaves has always been my favorite. I didn’t really realize the meaning of it when I first read it, but I always loved the conversation between the leaves, just the imagination of it. As I grew older I began to understand. This is truly a beautiful chapter, I just adore it.
I especially love this bit:
“There’s still plenty of time to worry about that,” the other leaf assured her. “Lets remember how beautiful it was, how wonderful, when the sun came out and shone so warmly that we thought we’d burst with life.”
It makes me think of one of my favorite quotes, Tuck Everlasting:
“Do not fear death… only the unlived life.
You don’t have to live forever;
You just have to live.”
Thank you for posting this, Adam. It reminds me that we should just enjoy our time here on earth…don’t waste your life worrying about death. And besides, I have no reason to worry about it. There’s something much better on the other side. :)
I remember reading this from your post last year. Yet back then, I didn’t fully grasp the concept. Of course then I was none the wiser, and I know I will never be able to completely catch hold of it. Who can? It’s poetry, and not even the poet can decipher all of his words. The depart is the most confusing and bittersweet moment… It’s that place where you don’t know whether to smile because they’re somewhere else, or to frown because they’re somewhere else. It’s really the most amazing thing to be standing on that border, although it’s the hardest thing you can imagine.
This made me sad.. :(
It’s so beautiful.
Thank you.
Hi adam!!!can I ask for your permission to post ur post???i was very inspired by it..I hope you would allow me to promote your blog…I won’t own it..I just want to share it..since it’s a source of blessing…
I hope u could understand..thank you…
Grace be with you!!
Adam, this made me so sad and yet touched something deep and melancholy and satisfying in my heart. Thanks so much for posting this. I’m relatively new to the blog so I’m glad that you posted this again. =)
Beautiful….1
As beautiful as the one who composed it..
As beautiful as the one who brought so many of us to it…
Bambi was one of the books my mother read aloud to us kids when we were younger. It’s been years since, but I think I might pick it up again, now.
Autumn has always been my favorite season. The trees turn glorious colors, sweaters are fetched out of the basement, and the air smells crisp with hints of fire and death, that is, the end of some things. Which sounds rather morbid, but it smells so nice. Bonfires, hay rides, s’mores, hot chocolate, pumpkin pie, falling leaves.
All as a prelude to Thanksgiving-and-Christmas-time, which to me translates to family-together-time.
The audio recording is lovely. I should look through my mother’s old radio recordings she has for some possible jems like it.
I love this time of year and wish I lived somewhere colder–here in the desert, the fall colors aren’t as exciting as I would like. But now, I feel sad for those beautiful leaves!
Wow. I’ve never heard about the book. I never seen the movie but it is on my list of things to do, after I read the book first though.
Thanks for that Mr. Young, that was very neat.
“The LORD your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will exalt over you with joy, He will quiet you in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.” Zephaniah 3:17
Thanks for everything you’ve helped me through, Mister Young! *salutes*
The second leaf asked, “Do we feel anything, do we know anything about ourselves when we’re down there?”
The first leaf answered, “Who knows? Not one of all those down there has ever come back to tell us about it.”
O! But we DO know Someone who has come back to tell us about it! Death is not the end for those who place their trust in Christ, and that is the most marvelous news in the world!
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” ~ Revelation 21:3-5
it was so inspiring, me sitting there imagining all of these things in my head, i was crying reading the story :’). it was sweet, the way that the story is told in a manner that leaves you inspired and in awe.
That always gets me. It’s such beautiful writing! Thanks for posting this, Mr. Young.
that was soo saaad! and SO TRUE!!! (pooor second leaf!! {8′s)
i’m going to be honest and say that i didn’t really grow up with ”bambi”, but the part u included here was really touching. thank u Mr. Adam! as always, ur the best!!
wow that was deep whhhhhh makes me want to cry the story is so sad why did bambies mom die why
I absolutely love this story! I remember when you posted it last year! Thanks for sharing it again, truly beautiful!
I have tears in my eyes. That was beautiful, Adam.
Adam,
Thank you so much for this. I never knew of it’s existence, and now I will never forget it. What a beautiful way to explain death to a child, or anyone for that matter.
Stay cozy and warm!
I’ll see you in Cleveland,
Julia
wow. thanks for sharing this. I wish I could think of an original way to express how simply beautiful and bittersweet that was, but a kajillion other people have already used up the good ones. So, thanks for sharing. I really, really, enjoy your blog, and your music.
Peace, Love and Various other good things,
-maeve b.
p.s. please come to utah again.
Dear Adam,
I really must read this book. Is it all so full of insight as is this chapter? I now find myself longing for older, more wholesome literature after several disappointing experiences with modern books. Our scoiety is degrading at an alarming rate…what a depressing state of affairs. Thank you for this beautiful passage.
~Juliette
Hey Adam! I love reading your blogs and I think we have much in common! Check out my blog at: http://saaraajuddha.blogspot.com/ :)
that was a great thing to listen to before bedtime
Aww, I love it.
Thank you for sharing my dear :)
You have a precious heart.
Love the blog post, Adam. It’s great to re-read certain things during the different seasons. I like Anne of Green Gables for summer and The Deerslayer by James F. Cooper for fall/winter. Classics rock! :)
Thanks for the encouragement, brother. It’s awesome to see you do so much good with your talents. God bless.
Beautiful!!! I love your blog posts! Every day I look on here to see if you have posted something new. Cant wait to see you when you come back to Orlando!!
Samantha
Welcome to the Philippines! am a huge fan of yours. Were it not for time constraints, i’ll definitely be there to hangout with you in your concert. more power!
p.s.
don’t forget to play “air traffic”:-)
Hey Adam! welcome to the Philippines :) like Markus, I’m a huge fan of yours! I can’t be there at the concert, though :( Have fun and have a great time here :)
This short passage was sweet…sad…but sweet. Maybe I’ll give the rest of the book a look. Of course I’ll have to finish the Chrysalids first…but there’s always time for another book! Always time for reading.
<3
http://orangeintheovercast.blogspot.com/2011/07/dearest-adam.html
I know I have posted this link many times, but I WON’T GIVE UP UNTIL YOU FIND IT ADAM!<3
It’s funny to see how different two people can think of only one chapter of a book. I’ve got the book too. I bought it like four years ago on the book market in the city I live in (largest of Europe, just amazing), for I collect books on which Walt Disney based his movies. I have the book in an omnibus with three other stories. One is about Bambi’s children, the third book is about a little squirrel and the last is about a rabbit family.
But now it’s about Bambi. The chapter you’re talking about is one of my favorite chapters as well. But for a different reason. I think it is so beautiful because it shows how nature is. Though the chapter is only about two leaves, it tells the story of the “circle of life” (no, I’m not talking about the lion king).
The circle of life I’m talking about is that the leaves fall down, the earth takes the leaves and then the trees take their food out of it. This is necessary for the new leaves to grow. Then it starts all over again.
This is only one part of nature that is explained in the book. There are so many other parts that Salden explains. I really love how he writes about nature.
You said, you take it out of your bookshelf in autumn. That’s somewhat different with me. I take it out of my bookshelf as soon as I can see the first tiny leafs come out of the trees before my bedroom window. Then I read it a couple of times, because I finish it within four days. That’s just too short, so I read it a next time, and a next and.. well, you probably understand what I mean.
I read the book every year at the start of spring, because the story reminds me of how nature, and therefore life, is: no matter how cold it gets during winter, there will always be spring coming up next. So actually, I celebrate spring by reading Bambi.
There is one point, on which I must agree with you, though. This will definitely be one of the first books my children will ever hear. And probably one of the books they will hear most, too.
I used to think that you are a great singer but after reading this i think first of all you are a great writer,u wrote it clearly what u got from that tell and how u feel about it.
Wow. Totally wow. That chapter was just great.
Thank you, Adam, for this blog post. It’s sad, and yet beautiful. I’m going to buy a copy of the book.
If you like this book, I guess you will love to read the book: The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.
Hauntingly beautiful. It brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for posting this. It reminded me though that we have hope in death, for we get to be with Christ and worship Him forever! God is so good!
Hmm, didn’t you do this last year? That’s pretty, though. I’m almost done with my Plant Life tribute, if only I could have, like, five minutes to myself! Unfortunately, I’m in our Haunted House, school play, and marching band. Just one week, Jess…
http://flipnote.hatena.com/5DC65290CE8A5246@DSi/
This is my Flipnote Hatena page, please check it out! There are other fans on there, too, that would love it if you saw their stuff! All the necessary links are on my page or my fans’ pages. Please, please, please have a look!
That is really beautiful. It really makes me think. And it helps me feel better about the possibility of moving.
I cant stop listening to this!!! i keep listening to it over and over late at night. As soon as I can I’m going to get my hands on this book! Thanks for the beautiful post!
That was so beautiful. I’ve read that chapter before on Adam’s blog and always had thought it to be a wonderful piece of writing, but with that narration, it just…came to life.
Thank you so very much for sharing this, Adam.
I’ve always wanted to post comments on here, but been a bit too shy for my own good. This is such a gorgeous story. I remember reading it long ago in middle school, and it was one of the few short stories we read that really stuck with me. I’ve actually wondered where it came from for quite awhile and even searched around for it, but haven’t been able to re-discover it until now – so thank you. I always love all your posts and how whimsical they are. They really feel like an insightful look into your world, and I’m grateful for the chance to experience even that small piece. Keep writing and being the amazing person you are!
The leaf story was nice. I’m sensing some good symbolism in it as well. What’s a good story without symbolism? :)
(this has nothing to do with the post, though it was beautiful) Adam, I just had to tell you that your music is amazing. I don’t think there’s anything else on this planet that boosts my self-esteem as well as “On the Wing,” or “Tidal Wave.” All of your songs are great, those are just the first two that helped me out a lot today.
Keep up the great work!
Beautiful,love the background music.(I thinks it’s ” Non Ce Piu.”)
thanks for the great story. you’re so unique in a cookie cutter world and it encourages me to be the same way!
sincerely,
grace
That was so beautiful! I don’t even have words to how touching that was.
Dear Adam,I am not sure whether my comments will be seen by you. But it does feel good to say some inner words to you. I was drowned in listenning to your “The tip of the iceberg” and in great anticipation of winter. Now it’s almost come. Really gorgeous song and voice. It makes my day.
What a bittersweet, allegoric tale. It definitely is a beautiful reminder of our own mortality. But as you were saying, those who are Christ’s will spend forever and ever with Him in Heaven. It reminds me of lyrics from a song by artist Matt Maher: “Oh, what a sweet exchange, I die to rise again, lifted up from the grave into Your hands of grace.”
Thank you for sharing this piece. Many blessings to you!
You, Breanne, and the whole gang should join my friend Holli and I after the Nov 4th concert to have chicken at Bobo’s Chicken in OKC! It’s a SUPER unique experience in Oklahoma, and great food!! ;)
http://flipnote.hatena.com/5DC65290CE8A5246@DSi/movie/8A5246_0B0E397E4B1EE_020?in=user
FINALLY!!!!!!!!!! I have finally finished it! This is my humble tribute to Plant Life. Please enjoy it, it took me a month to make. It doesn’t have much to do with this post, but please check it out! Please!
I commented on the 25th, but whatever :). This is kind of off subject but I just wanted to say that every time you post something, Mr. Young, it never fails to inspire me incredibly. I love to write and make music, but I sometimes wish I could be as good as you. God’s certainly blessed you with awesome gifts. I know God gave me different talents for a reason, though, so I really have nothing to complain about. Anyway, thanks for writing stuff that I, along with many others, get so inspired by. It encourages me to practice so that one day I might be as talented a writer and musician as you. Another wish of mine is that I really hope to be able to go see you in concert so I can wave to you and scream something crazy in excitement. That sure would be something. Anyhoot, I guess this sounded kinda dumb, but at least I got to put it out there. I can never think of anything to comment about that won’t sound really lame, so I rarely do. I certainly hope you read this, but if not, that’s okay.
Your sister in Christ, Samantha
I love your blogs Adam. Please dont ever stop writing them. They really make me think. Cant wait to see you at Cedarville :) 12 days :D
@everyone
Please watch my tribute guys! (see post 3 comments up)
That was lovely thanks Adam:) now I want to read it:)
Oh my gosh! I love Bambi! I just had no clue that there was a 1923 novel thingy. I really want to read it now because you made it sound so… erm… EPIC! Happy Halloween!
Adam,
You’re amazing. You have such a heart for God. =) I hope you have a truly blessed life because you have blessed me! And no doubt many others!
Blessings and prayers!
Susanna shepherd
I loved that story Adam. It makes me really want to start reading again. This computer of mine…it destroys my soul I think…
Adam,
All I can say is thank you. You have again made me realize another important thing in life. I felt peace right after I read and heard the narration.
This just reminds me of the elder generation. To think about it, some of us don’t even make it to our 40′s or 50′s nowadays. we really don’t know When we will finally be taken away.” But I guess that’s the way it goes”
Such a beautiful story. So much melancholy.
Cool story, bro. #Seriously #MadeMeThink
Oh, I am starting to be addicted to the narration, though I can’t share it to people here since they won’t appreciate it.
It was really awkward, because I listened to this at work in a library, and had to keep REALLY hard from crying..haha
I guess what I mean to say is, thanks for sharing that. There are beautiful stories, and beautiful truths, that once heard and realized stay deep in the soul. This was one of those. Beautiful. Thank you.
Beautiful.
Thanks for the reminder that Gods got this, and its all gonna be alight:) Keep doing what you do, cause your good at it.
Praying for ya!
CYA IN ALLENTOWN. IM SO PUMPED (writing you a letter, not sure how to get it to u, BUT IM GUNNA TRY TO GET IT TO U.)
hi adam
i’ve read this post a week ago
and i still think about it until now
i remember one of my student in sunday school who passed away a month ago, he was 6 years old. Your story remind me of him, but also tell me that sooner or later we’ll leave the world, so dont waste the chance which Jesus give for us
GBU adam :)
this is simply beautiful, Adam, words can’t describe it…i cry when i here this <3
Yours truely,
Eglantyne
This made me tear up.
That was insane. So sar. :(
There is one part I admit I disagree with.
“(and even more excited to further explain that death isn’t the end for followers of Christ)”
This is getting into religion but I believe that everyone who loves and are good to eachother, honest etc will go to Heaven. And yes, I believe in God, I’m Jewish. XP
I don’t think it’s the end for anyond and I personally don’t believe that only Christians go to Heaven. I belive anyone, no matter what religion or beliefs., who love and accept eachothed for who they are, and are good peopls will go to Heaven.<3
Thanks and I'm not offending your religion (or anyonr else's, for that matter) this was beautif and so sad (trying not to cry) <3.
i know that you would never read this but i just wanna to tell you that you’re beautiful, by all means.
Iit really touch my heart.
Whatever your create, Adam always have own place in my heart.
Oh, well… I’m sorry Adam, I just found your personal blogger .. so I receintly joined with you here this time
Beautiful story indeed
Dear Adam, I just copied the story and posted it on my facebook. Really love reading your blog..! Thanks!
It’s amazing to know a boy who likes this story. Okay, you are older than 15. I really love Bambi. It’s a cute and lovely story which everyone HAS to like. Another reason to protect the forests: there could be another Bambi. :)
Wow, that is beautiful. The dialogue is so simple, yet so profound.
Thank you for sharing beautiful stories, dear brother. Maybe someday I will meet someone who I can tell stories to.
It’s so beautiful and true. I think I should read this book.
Oh, that is so beautiful… Thank you for sharing that.
I’m a fan of your music and just happened to stumble across your blog. After reading this post, I feel extremely humbled about life and death and can’t help but look forward to what’s in store in heaven. The radio dramatization was what really did it for me because music touches me deeply, and the music that went along with the dramatization really hit home–especially the ending song, Going Home. Thanks for sharing, Adam!
I never really thought about it, but I guess I’ll die someday! So will every person I know. Vanished! To the land of mists.
That’s so sad! Thanks for sharing that, Adam.
Wow–thanks for posting this. Definitely makes you stop and gain some perspective. So sad. So touching.
Thats soooo beautiful. i listened to it like 6 times :)
We all must fall, eventuall, because if we hold on to our past, we are not able to see the present around us, and subsequently, we will never be able to move to the future. We all must fall, because if we did not fall, we would never be able to grow. For to be able to grow, we must first realize that our life is not ours to begin with — it is God’s. When we realize this essential truth,we can either be overwhelmed with a desire to grow spiritually so that we can get as close to God as possible, or we will rebel and cling to what we know is safe. We all must fall eventually, because without falling, we could never be able to say that God has picked us back up… That is what I got from that.
Sorry, wasn’t done…
We all must fall, because it is when we fall that we cry out to God. When we cry out, He gently picks us back up,holds us in His loving arms, and then puts back where He wants us to be. If wr didn’t fall sometimes, we would never know God’s grace, would we?
There, now I’m done…
Lovely. Thanks for sharing it. I had no idea there was a “Bambi” book, or that it would be so beautifully written.
it’s a very touching story and i love it. great post adam :)
touching me so much! Jesus bless you ADAM ma love :)
Hey, Adam. I’m not much of a reader but I absolutely love reading your blog. You always give me so much more to learn. I love you Adam. Thanks a million for being you. If it weren’t for you, I would’ve never found the courage to be myself. You deserve every single good thing in the world.
Ahh, so beautiful and bittersweet. Autumn is my favorite season; I miss the leaves in winter.
I’ve always had the strong sense that when I “fall”, no matter where or when or how, I’ll be ready, and unafraid; faith does that. But if by that time I have a fellow leaf I think it would be nice to die together. Not a must, but nice…
Adam,
After reading a few other enteries this has to stand out the most to me
it sort of has this voice i here that speaks to me
OWLCITY FOREVER
p.s. if you were wondering about what i posted on the chco taco thing {idk if you read this or not} but i <3 lang and {another thing to let the other kids pick on me}
ADAM, WHAT WAS THE LEAF ABOUT TO SAY? BEFORE THE WIND BLEW HER OFF, WHAT WAS SHE ABOUT TO SAY?
This story by Felix Salten is one that has opened my eyes and has added to my testimony that life is short and we need to be as Christ like as we can. The first leaf, even though she was afraid of what was to come, herself, she was constantly uplifting and comforting the second leaf. It is utterly amazing to me the compasion, and complete selflessness people can show to others. I thank you, Adam for shareing this absoultly humbling story on your blog. It is a great way for others to see what it is that you understand, and that you wish for them to understand as well. I adore you and your writting, your inspiring words, and your uplifting attitude, and to a sixteen year old who is trying to be the best she can to whom every she can, you are a wonderful role model. Scilent grattitude does nothing for any body, so thank you.
This almost made me cry! I’m going to have to read the original Bambi story- there is so much to get from it. Thank you, Adam! I love you.
how a simple story teaches us so many things…we all must fall..but we can’t spend all our life thinking about it…this story really tells that why we should live life for the moment…because its beautiful…problems, come and go…they blur the view…but once they clear up…its beautiful again…thanks, Adam, for sharing this sweet story…I get a lot of inspiration from you! :)
That was so touching. Bambi has got to be one of my most favorite books ever. It’s been a while since I’ve read the book and the part about the two leaves is the part I remember best. Your post just makes me want to read the book all over again.
God bless,
Nicole
That’s so sad, but just don’t want to make me sad at the same time.
So beautiful. I’ve never read this.
Thank you
I won’t forget this story.
Marina ~*
so deep…so lovely!