John M. Burke was an American author and historian known for his vivid portrayals of the American West. His most notable work, 'Buffalo Bill from Prairie to Palace,' chronicles the life of William F. Cody, better known as Buffalo Bill, who became an iconic figure in American folklore through his Wild West shows. Burke's writing captures the spirit of the frontier and the complexities of American identity during a time of rapid expansion and change. Through meticulous research and engaging narrative, he brought to life the adventures and cultural significance of Buffalo Bill, highlighting the interplay between myth and reality in the American experience. Burke's contributions extend beyond mere biography; he provided insights into the social and historical contexts that shaped the legends of the West. His work is significant for its role in preserving the stories of American pioneers and entertainers, offering readers a glimpse into the lives of those who helped define the mythology of the frontier. As a chronicler of American history, Burke's legacy lies in his ability to weave together fact and folklore, making the past accessible and engaging for future generations.
“And you know, back on Earth, I had so many questions for God. “If I ever meet Him,” I’d say, “I’m going to ask Him how He could let someone molest me when I was a child. How could He abide brutality against children or the suffering of starving people or cruelty toward the weak?” . . . In His presence I absolutely understood that in every way God’s plan is perfect. Sheer, utter perfection. Does that mean I can now explain how a child being murdered fits into God’s plan? No. I understood it in heaven, but we aren’t meant to have that kind of understanding here on Earth. All I can tell you is that I know God’s plan is perfect. In His radiance, it all makes perfect, perfect sense. In this way all the questions I had for God were answered without me even having to ask them. And yet, standing in His glorious presence, filled with His infinite wisdom, there was still one question I felt compelled to ask. . . . But in fact it wasn’t really a question for God at all. It was a question for myself. . . . “Why didn’t I do more for You? Why didn’t I accomplish more in Your name? Why didn’t I talk more about You? Why didn’t I do what You asked me to do?” It’s not that I felt regret”
“When I started my studies years ago, I thought of myself as an academic with an interest in the martial arts. Then I met Yamashita. Now I’ve come to the awareness that I’m a martial artist with some advanced academic credentials. “We know there are people more qualified, Burke,””
“I’m awestruck by how everyone who experiences this Being of Light describes a love that would run toward them, embrace them, value them, no matter what”