Watching a Fire by Marie Wells Coutu

Marie Wells Coutu

NOTE: This was originally posted on Marie Well’s Coutu’s site, July 25, 2016, but I thought it was a great reminder for writers during the week before Mother’s Day: never lose an opportunity to share stories with your family. I hope you like it as much as I did. — Angie

They call it “Bush TV.”

In remote parts of Africa, far from modern civilization, people still gather around a roaring fire before and after dinner. They sit and gaze into the flames, conversation rising and falling with the fingers of fire. Topics range over the day’s events, plans for tomorrow, the sounds of lions, how many kinds of flies there are, and philosophies of life.

For variety, one might gaze up at the stars or out at the surrounding bush. Before dark, the waterhole in the valley below may attract impala, wildebeest, kudu, baboons, or even elephants.

It’s the evening news, Nature Channel, Discovery Channel, and History Channel all rolled into one.

Even better, it brings people together and stimulates thought, provides insights about human nature and builds friendships. Who needs television when you have a fire?

Even in the U.S., we enjoy our campfires during the summer. Roasting hot dogs or marshmallows, making S’mores, stirring up the coals. Sharing, wishing, dreaming, laughing. We just don’t do enough of it (at least our family doesn’t these days).
These times bring joy, and Proverbs 17:22 says, “A joyful heart is good medicine.” 

When did watching TV bring that same kind of joy, or help me get to know a friend or understand my family better?

I’ve been fortunate this past week to enjoy “Bush TV” every night. The memories will remain with me for a long time. And so will the urge to sit by a fire and talk.

What about you? What customs does your family have that bring you closer together, and give you a joyful heart?

About the Author

Marie Wells Coutu’s novels often deal with characters who suffer from Imposter Syndrome. At least, they worry that if their secrets are discovered, their lives will change drastically.

Her latest release, The Secret Heart, is a modern reimagining of Bathsheba and David’s story, featuring the governor and first lady of Tennessee. Keeping their secret is destroying their marriage, but revealing it could mean the end of any political career. Find out more at myBook.to/TheSecretHeart, visit Marie’s website at www.MarieWellsCoutu.com where she shares devotional thoughts regularly, or follow her on Facebook at Marie Wells Coutu, Author.


The Secret Heart


The Secret Heart
by Marie Wells Coutu

Beautiful Shawna Moore married Hunter Wilson, the governor of Tennessee, after a whirlwind romance, only six weeks following her first husband’s death in Iraq. Now, she wonders if the governor loved her at all or only hoped to avoid a scandal.

An investigative reporter—and friend of Shawna’s—is asking questions. If he discovers the truth about Shawna’s baby, Hunter’s chances for reelection could be ruined. But keeping the secret is destroying their marriage. Will Shawna convince Hunter to choose his family and drop out of politics, or will he continue to put his career first?

For a sneak peek, download the first chapter here.