, told by Colton Burpo and written by his dad, Todd Burpo. I read the paperback version of the book, but the book I've linked to hear is actually a newer version of the story created especially for kids. I'd like to purchase this, as I'd attempted explaining the story to my (almost) 8-year-old son but realize he would get much more meaning out of it from a version made just for kids. (Here's the main website for this book.)Colton Burpo visited Heaven while he was in surgery at a young age. His parents received bits and pieces of his experience over the course of about a year, and those fragments are woven together by his father in the book, creativing a cohesive story. While in Heaven, Colton saw Jesus. He tried to explain what Jesus looked like and whenever he saw representations of Jesus on paintings, he would critique what was incorrect about the image... until he saw Akiane's painting of Jesus.
It is interesting to note that Akiane has no religious background and was not raised to believe in a specific faith. She has had no formal artistic training. This is her gift, her artistic ability. She painted this picture of Jesus at age 8. Akiane is now 17. You have to see her gallery. Really, her art speaks for itself. She also pairs some pieces with poetry she's written, that you can read when you click on the image.
What more can I say? I'm cutting this short so you can take the time to visit her site and see for yourself. Before I go, I'll just share about a couple of images that jump out at me as I view Akiane's gallery this morning.
Under "Age 13" is Akiane's painting of an eye... When clicked on, the following words are included with this image: "Each and every one of us is part of the infinite perspective seeing reality through our own individual awareness. Without one of our views there wouldn't be absolute fulfillment and completeness." ~Akiane
The thoughts Akiane shares about her "Search for the Truth" painting (under the age 12 tab) blow me away with their wisdom. I could spend hours viewing her paintings. I hope you enjoy them, too, and look forward to hearing about what you think. Have you heard of Akiane before? Do you agree that you will never forget her? Which of her paintings do you find yourself attracted to?
Amazing! Beautiful! Perfect! I am blown away by this young woman's perspective and wisdom. She has surpassed people five times her age. What a light and an example to all of us! thank you for sharing on NOBH!
ReplyDeleteThank you for taking the time to visit and comment, Diane. I am so glad you were blown away, as I am, by Akiane. She is amazing!
DeleteI'm someone who believes that few coincidences are just coincidences and that there is a greater plan. I'm Christian so I believe in the Holy Spirit and that God uses any and all things to accomplish His plan for us. I have non-Christian friends who have similar beliefs. Some believe in the Law of Attraction or that the universe has a plan. No matter what the details, the core is the same I think. I had never heard of either Akiane or Colton until recently. My therapist loaned me the Heaven is for Real DVD's on Wednesday and I was planning to watch them today. This is the first time I have had to really look at your blog and this is the first post I read... Timing! Thank you for this post. Your blog is wonderful too! Take care, Gabrielle.
ReplyDeleteYes, the timing is impeccable, Gabrielle! Thank you for sharing your comment here with me. The timing of when I discovered Akiane & Heaven is For Real was all more than coincidental too. It's so neat to see how God uses everything, including blog posts, to encourage us! Blessings to you!
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