The crusade to influence others in our society has become a major ambition and for some a full-time job. As people seek attention and relevance, monetary gain and to harvest power, it has never been more important for the average consumer and voter to be vigilant of the power of influence.
In March 2023, my husband’s parents’ house burned down. They escaped unharmed, but they lost everything.
Writing a weekly column has its challenges, especially when you’ve done it for nearly 20 years. Everything worth writing about has been written about.
For those of us watching the 2024 election cycle ramp up with its cast of characters, speculation, and propaganda, do you ever find yourself humming the chorus of the Stealers Wheel song, “Clowns to the left of me. Jokers to the right. Here I am, stuck in the middle with you.”
I couldn't think of the guy's name. I had seen him before; perhaps we had even been introduced but for the life of me I couldn't put a name with the face. Then it dawned on me after considerable thought and deliberation. He was the guy who had serviced my truck the last time I had taken it in. He smiled and visited on various subjects. He knew exactly who I was.
There comes a certain point when we suddenly realize we cannot do it all alone. There are just some mountains too high, some gorges too deep and some challenges and circumstances too big for us to carry. In a tight squeeze, we must have some help. In a critical crisis or situation, it is essential to know someone has our back. There is no greater help than God. In our time of need, he provides access for us to those I call "divine connections" that will help us get through the tough situations we face. We encounter crisis after crisis, and it is comforting to know God provides the sources and resources to help us through our pain and struggles. God promises, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). We don't always have to be brave and we don't have to stand alone. We don't have to prove anything. All we have to do is let God help us and lean on those he provides to comfort and help us along the way. Help is available; recognize it, accept it and be thankful. He always channels the direction of our lives and the people that move in and out of it, known as angels of mercy.
To be hopeful in the midst of corrupt times is to be brave.
Tarleton State University has been an important part of my life for numerous years. My father graduated from Tarleton College. I received a bachelor's degree, master's degree, and counselor's certification from Tarleton State University. My husband went to Tarleton as well as our three children.
