His painted smile held the only hint of happiness in Fabian Flake's frosty world. At the same time, that smile was his biggest disappointment, for the dabbed-on bits of shiny black paint did not allow Fabian to say a word.  The craftsman who painted his cheery face never considered that Fabian might one day wish to hold a pipe in his mouth (just for appearance' sake), sing a song of snowflakes, or call a friendly greeting to passersby. 

        At least, his lacquered mouth was always smiling, a small blessing for Fabian Flake, for it was his crooked smile that drew little children to him in spite of his sadness.  He had to admit that they seemed to love him even with his quiet manner, and it always warmed his heart when they talked to him.  Ah, well, perhaps there were more important things than talking or singing or holding a pipe in his teeth.  Perhaps the wistful love in Fabian's frosty heart touched the neediest souls of the children-- and even grownups -- who came his way.  Just maybe, his insightful maker had intentionally sealed his voice deep inside!

          Fabian reflected that one had to stop and lean over to hear his still, small voice as it silently called out from within, offering a portion of cheer to those whose own smiles had been frozen for too long. Perhaps it would be wise to be content with bringing smiles to their hearts  as they drew near, rather than wasting his winter days dreaming of what he couldn't do.

          As he pondered these wise thoughts, he felt a warm hand around his tummy, as a wee boy picked him up and began twirling around with him, suddenly breaking into song as he danced with the snowman made of cloth.  The little tyke bellowed out the story of "Fwoth-ty, the Thnowman" as Fabian struggled to keep his equilibrium!  When his slightly-older sister joined him and began to sing "Here Comes Susie Snowflake," Fabian thought his little cotton heart would burst with happiness! Why was he wasting his time being sad, wishing for things he would never have, when he could be enjoying all the wonderful things about his life?  

"I'm tired of being a Gloomy Gus," Fabian thought as his black eyes twinkled; From now on, I will try  to be a Faithful, Friendly Fabian every day, counting my blessings and singing silent songs that can be heard in the hearts of everyone I meet!

          He decided then and there that he would be the best cotton snowman he could be, painted smile and all.  After all, wasn't that what his maker intended all along?

    What does your Maker intend for you?

Jesus said, "I am come that you might have life, and that you might have it more abundantly!"

 "Peace I leave with you; my joy I give unto you."  

"We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works."

Before you go to meet your Maker, get acquainted with your Maker and learn His will for your life.

Fabian Flake was lovingly crafted by Robin Wetzel.