C. J. Porter – Landmark

A rock is just a rock, until you find one so distinct and uniquely formed, one that rests upon the highest mountain. It then becomes a landmark, a form that many can see for miles and miles. When America was first discovered, such a rock would be etched on an animal hide to make a map for others to follow. Those who made their pilgrimage later would know they were going the right direction when they saw that landmark. As time went by each group passing this path would follow the path forged from this map and each one would make improvements for those coming after would have it better than they.

Uncle Porter was like a landmark rock. Among men he stood tall for all to look to in times of need. He continually worked to improve the world around himself. Though we are all men who make mistakes, Uncle Porter had the uncanny ability to learn and set his course back true and over time I’ve come to watch him, as closely as I would a map, to gain insight on how to travel this thing called life. With the thousands of mistakes I've made, I’ve always been able to stop, check my bearings, and reposition myself to his higher standard.

Uncle Porter was a G-d fearing man and a firm believer in the Lord Jesus Christ. He and Aunt Vida have faithfully attended New Caney Church of Christ. Uncle Porter was a unique rock that rested upon his beliefs upon “the Rock” Jesus Christ. If we seek the wisdom of Christ as did Uncle Porter we too have the promise to grow old, get wiser and grow in confidence of our eternal life.

He was a quiet man but when he spoke his words were golden, ripe with years of wisdom. His character was strong and he lived out his convictions. He was a good husband, father, neighbor, and friend. Love was always in his heart and forever in his deeds.

He was a hard worker, besides faithfully working a job until retirement; he also plowed a garden and worked the soil with his hands. Nurturing plants from the ground and encouraging each to bring forth a bountiful harvest for his family or to give to friends and neighbors.

The thoughts of a field of flowers, the gurgling of a nearby stream or a cool summer breeze lift the spirit and bring a smile to everyone. They are thoughts or memories of a time or place to escape the hardships of life. They conjure thoughts of better times.  C. J. Porter with his gentle yet firm nature invokes a desire within us to a better way of living where we can make our world a better place. I’ll always be thankful for the guidance and leadership he displayed with his everyday way of living. He will always be a living landmark.

“The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom;

And with all your acquiring, get understanding. Proverbs 4:7

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom,

And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. Proverbs 9:10