There's something magical about the first truly cold weekend of winter. As the temperature dropped into the low 30s, I invited a few friends to the Oasis for our Smokey Moments gathering. The occasion called for something special yet approachable—a cigar that wouldn't demand too much time in the cold but would deliver an experience worth savoring.
Enter the Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story.
This perfecto-shaped masterpiece is a study in concise excellence—much like the parables of Christ, where profound truth is contained in brief narrative. At just 4 inches with a 49 ring gauge, it's the ideal companion for a 45-minute reflection session. Don't let its modest size fool you; this small wonder packs remarkable complexity.
The Experience
We began our gathering with a brief word of prayer, asking God to bless our time together and open our hearts to wisdom and fellowship. As we lit our cigars, the initial light revealed a perfect draw—a testament to the masterful construction we've come to expect from the Fuente family. Notes of cedar and sweet spice announced themselves immediately, creating a foundation for what was to come.
"This reminds me of my grandfather's study," remarked one guy, as he took his first contemplative puff. "He always had his Bible open on the desk and a subtle aroma of tobacco in the air." The comparison sparked a discussion about spiritual mentors in our lives—those who shaped our understanding of faith through both words and presence.
As we progressed through the first third, subtle notes of coffee and cocoa emerged, pairing beautifully with the Ethiopian pour-over we were enjoying. The conversation drifted naturally to Proverbs 27:17, "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another"—reflecting on how gatherings like this serve to refine our character and faith through honest conversation.
The Conversation
By the middle third, the cigar's complexity had blossomed fully. A pleasant nuttiness joined the profile, with hints of cream softening the experience. Our discussion deepened accordingly.
"I've been thinking about legacy lately," one older man offered, breaking a comfortable silence. "Not just what we leave behind materially, but the spiritual inheritance we pass to our children and grandchildren."
This thought carried us through to the final third, where the Short Story's strength built slightly without ever becoming aggressive. The flavor remained balanced—earthy with lingering sweetness—as we contemplated Psalm 145:4, "One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts."
Another man shared a challenge he was facing at work, where his faith was being tested through ethical dilemmas. No one rushed to offer simple solutions. Instead, we listened intently, offered scripture that provided guidance, and committed to pray for him in the coming week.
The Verdict
As the ember finally approached the figurado foot, none of us were ready for the experience to end. The Short Story had lived up to its reputation, providing not just excellent tobacco but serving as a catalyst for one of the most meaningful conversations we'd had in months.
For new enthusiasts, this cigar offers an accessible entry point to premium smoking. For veterans, it's a reminder that excellence often comes in small packages. Like the mustard seed in Christ's parable, small beginnings can lead to remarkable growth.
This Smokey Moment was deemed a unanimous success. As we concluded with a brief prayer of thanksgiving, there was a sense that we had established something valuable—a space where faith, fellowship, and the appreciation of craftsmanship could flourish together.
"Let us not give up meeting together," quoted David from Hebrews 10:25, "but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Next gathering, we're thinking of pairing a different vitola with bourbon instead of coffee. The journey continues, one slow, intentional moment at a time.
"Be still, and know that I am God." — Psalm 46:10
What experiences have helped you slow down to appreciate God's presence in your life? Share in the comments below.