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"Welford Street Miracles" a novel by R. Merial Martin. Based on a true story of a family living on the Westside in the oil refinery town of Port Arthur, Texas from the early 1930's to 1987. This rivoting tale of the Miracles that occurred on Welford Street and how they affected the lives of all family members and especially that of the fourth son whose triumphs and struggles lead to the greatest miracle of all.Texas, and currently residing in Acknowledgment I want to acknowledge the inspiration given me by Hollywood writer Harry Essex. This former New Yorker wrote, co-wrote, or directed dozens of movies and numerous TV shows during his lengthy Hollywood career. I met him in 1984 when his small yacht was moored in Marina Del Rey next to my wife’s grandparents, the Schmolls’ large sailboat. He reviewed several manuscripts that I had written. He gave me a handwritten review of my works. I treasure his notes and keep them in a safe place. He loved the true stories of Welford Street. He encouraged me to pursue it to the fullest and add a central character whose life was influenced by Welford Street Miracles. It took time for the life of that main character to develop beyond what was fact in 1984. Harry, I pray that you are reviewing me from above.
Foreword Welford Street Miracles is based on something you know something about. Something you experienced through the sense of life, of actual living, and that always makes for the best kind of writing. Its simplicity, its honesty in telling is evident not only in the lines but between the lines, and that’s when writing is at its best. You believe the miracle, and believing it you begin to see the characters and feel for them and hope for them spiritually. Into this group of people we have a main character. Your prime subject wrought with a medical problem, brainwashed in his spiritual hierarchy, and skilled in the business world, whose struggles and accomplishments come to the forefront and whose encounter with a stranger ends in the greatest miracle of all. The best of everything as you advance your writing career. Harry Essex, writer, producer-director “
"...I just finished your book....I can tell you I had quite an emotional response to your story!! I was amazed with the arrival of the stranger, I cried when the selfishness of man prevailed, I was angry at the conditions you/he had to live in and the struggles and sacrifices that you all endured. I often stayed up late to read....( I would start at 11:30 pm...not wise.) and get so into the story that I had to make myself put down the book in order to sleep. More importantly I admired the man who took the truths of Gods word and applied them to his life. The man who desired to please the Lord and do what was right, not seeing the evil of men's hearts but wanting to believe the best about a person.
I'm amazed that you allowed The Lord to use you as His instrument to bring justice and peace to the situation. I'm happy that you had the strength and courage to obey The Lord,,,,,"obedience is better than sacrifice" right? In the end Richard, I found myself wanting to visit Welford Street. I wanted to meet the people who once live there because I felt like I knew them somehow, they reminded me of some of the people who were in my neighborhood growing up. I feel like I don't really know my neighbors now, and I miss the sense of community and the relationships you develop with people living near each other for a very long time. It made me homesick.
Also, I longed for the stranger,,,,,Christ; your story reminded me of how near he really is,,,,,and how privileged I am to know Him, to have a relationship with Him. I can call on Christ when ever I need Him and He always comes,.but your story reminds us that He comes looking for us even when we are not looking for Him. He wants to bless us and help us more than we know or understand!!!! I believe in Miracles Richard,,,,but my faith in them has gotten stronger after reading your story!!!! Thank you!!! Blessing and more stories from your heart!!!..." Lydia Montgomery, Manager, New Life Resale Store (benefiting Pregnancy Care Center)Huntsville, TX
"...Richard…Your family, YOU, your path in life – all extraordinary. Your susceptibility, under trying circumstances, and how you overcame the distinct negativity is so profound. Because you made reference to verses in the bible, I recalled this – In his sermon on the mount (Matthew 7:15), Jesus warns: Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. When you are awakened and take hold of your life – a Shakespearian quote: Thee, Ill chase hence, thou wolf in sheep’s array. (King Henry the 6th) Your book was a revelation! ..." Helen Beslity, New York Librarian
"Great Book" By Tom W. from Seattle, Washington on 7/27/2009 Pros: Easy To Understand, Relevant, Well Written Describe Yourself: Casual Reader Bottom Line: Yes, I would recommend this to a friend This book was so good I couldn't put it down. I could readily relate to the events and people in this book. I grew up and was raised two blocks from the Martin family in the 900 block of Welford Street. I personally knew some of the people he told of in the book. It brought back a lot of memories. I was raised by my grandparents and remember when they got rid of the old "ice box" and got a new refrigerator. The West Side was the center of my universe. It was safe and close knit community. The book also renewed my faith and belief in "Guardian Angels". Good work Richard Martin!
"...Rick - I've read your book, straight through in one evening; couldn't put it down! Although you don't have the polish (yet) that some of the more established writers have, you do have the knack of telling a gripping story in a way that keeps the reader glued to the book right to the end. For me, the book is basically in two parts, one part history and one part autobiographical, with the two parts being tied together by the mysterious stranger - it's obvious that your faith is very strong and an integral part of your life. I hope, and expect, to see more great stories from you in the future..." Jim Lathrop, Sun City West
“…I am so proud that I know you. This book is powerful and such a legacy for your family to have their miracle story in print… An inspiring depiction of love and faith. It is truly a must-read for all book clubs…” Dr. Paula W. Adams Sam Houston University Professor
“…[Mr. Martin’s] writing puts me in a mental movie…. My skin still itches from the mosquitoes, and my mind is still trying to wrap around the power of the forgiveness….” Carl Goshy, Home Builder, Trumpeter
“…Very powerful….a wonderful history of…family….God does work in mysterious ways.” Edith Rutledge “…I enjoyed Welford Street Miracles so much, I even had a few tears. Praise the Lord!!! I am so fortunate to have met you, Richard. I will have to tell you how you and the Lord have blessed me.” Virgil Jorgensen Studio City, CA
“…You represent [the west side of Port Arthur] well…. Thank you!” Professor Donald P. Linden, M. Ed Houston Community College District
“…Like going back in time. …A young man away from home with life’s trials and tribulations, making the ultimate sacrifice to hopefully provide for [his] family in [his] absent as [his] parents…provided for [him] in [his] youth….I believe in miracles.” Pauline Brown-Linden"...
