Time comes and goes. We see ourselves get older, and discouragement sets in. Responsibilities and other things that call for our attention get in the way of creativity and inspiration. We get weary, our spirits grow thin, and things get set aside that never should have been. We begin to think maybe the promise belongs to someone else. Someone younger and more innocent. We begin to think perhaps we are meant to make the way for their sake alone. We begin to let go.

God is good, and hope is real, and eventually the sun breaks through the clouds if we look up to see. And though things are not as we wish they were, and though we are not what we might have been but for a different decision there and a change of path here, we realize that life is still to be had.

We accept our responsibilities. We are glad for the chance to encourage those we take under wing. We are proud of their success and our part. But within our hearts, hope still sparks. In our busy minds, imagination still flutters. In our spirits, creativity still longs to spread its wings. We hear the promise, as long as there is life, there is still time.

So, maybe things will never be as we wished they might be, and maybe we will carry with us the pains of time and wistful thinking, but there is still good to have if we are brave enough to dare the day and continue on. Just beyond the next ridge or the next sunrise is the promise. Our spirits shed years, our eyes grow brighter, with each step toward the goal.

Endure to Hope

About Gypsy's fanfictions:

Endure to Hope takes place in the aftermath of the war events in FFXII.
The focus is specifically on the complex relationship of Noah and Basch fon Ronsenburg and their individual perspectives of their history.
I am also seeking to tie in past events that underscore tensions during FFXII.

Be advised the story starts by modifying Noah's in-game fate and contains original characters to compliment the advancing plot.
Rated T for Teen: conflict and fighting, descriptions of, or illusions to, war, loss, death, and pain, sexual tension for plot purposes.

If all goes well, I would like to continue the story with side quests in the form of short stories. These may include a look at Drace and exploring the lives and deaths of the eldest sons of Gramis.

I have postponed plans to finish my look into the world of The Big Valley entitled Your Heart Will Find a Home as I simply do not have the time. If ever I get some free time, I'll try to revisit this.
The setting was immediately after the events in Hide the Children. The title was taken from the lyrics of the song Pilon sang to Nick.
Inspiration was drawn from Nick's comments in the episode, as well as Night of the Wolf, that despite his hard work, he wonders if he missed out on something more important.
The plan was to give focus to Nick but deal also with the family dynamic. Rated T for Teen with the expectation of western era violence.

I do not own, nor hold claim to, any canon character or part of any licensed world, and intend no copyright infringement.

Please note, Original Characters appearing within my fanfiction writings are my own creations.

Thanks much to anyone who takes time to read my fanfics! And additional thanks to those who go on to review! Your interest and time are much appreciated! ...Did I mention how much I appreciate it? Because I really do. Sometimes it gets a little lonely writing for myself, though I'd do it, believe me. ;)

*Special thanks to Cyde, who by any name is a great-sun, for being a terrific sounding board and helping to inspire and keep me on track with his great fact-checking mind.

"For the children around the world without a home, say a prayer tonight." -Third Day

"For a dreamer, night's the only time of day." -Santa fe, Newsies