3In 2013, I went in for an angiogram to determine if I needed a stent for a blocked artery. I clearly remember the doctor halting the procedure with the words "Mr. Sales, you're not getting a stent; you are going to have bypass surgery." I had five blocked arteries! I got a hospital room, but no surgeon. The surgeon they wanted was unavailable. So, there I sat in my room, waiting for my surgery. With five days to wait, I also had plenty of time to pray. I made a prayer request. "Lord, when they take out my heart to do what is needed... put something new in with it." Little did I know, as I began my recovery with long walks on the walking trail that ran behind my house, I was about to discover that something new. I had never written a poem in my life. Then one day, on one of my walks, it came-my first poem. Since then, I have been the recipient of many poems, along with a host of short essays. They have introduced me to twelve faithful friends who both advise and stand guard in my life. They offer inspiration, observation, insight, and wisdom, along with some rhyme. Join me with some of these faithful friends, and let's go for a walk! Michael Sales earned his degree in Business Administration / Accounting from the University of North Texas. He also added enough hours in Religious Studies to have completed a second degree. As a CPA, he has enjoyed a diverse and intriguing career serving as the Chief Financial Officer and senior executive for several large and prestigious corporations. Michael has been responsible for and deeply involved in almost every discipline of business including sales, human resources, marketing, information technology, finance and accounting, and operations. He has also served as Senior Pastor for over 20 years, financial advisor and board member for several religious and educational organizations, and has managed numerous construction projects as architect, designer, and general contractor. Along with ownership in several businesses, he is currently serving as part of the pastoral team at GracePoint Fellowship in McKinney, Texas.