Is Albany Really The Good Life City?

I woke up this morning with a heaviness of heart. I thought about my ladies from the center. I thought about the faceless people who I have yet to meet that are at home praying to God for that one door of opportunity to open for them. I thought about the many people who have been told "no"; not because they weren't qualified but because they didn't "classify" as being a part of the "in crowd". I thought about all the people who have yet to discover the world of hope, happiness and salvation. I thought about the people who have given up on God because of the poor christian examples placed before them.At first I got mad and then I thought "Thank you Lord because it could have been me and my family."

God has given Travis and I a wonderful ministry and loving family. He has planted seeds for our future business endeavors. We are excited about them all...but still...We know how it feels to fight to keep our vision and dreams alive. We were blessed to be raised by parents who taught us in firm love "You'd better not give up. Satan is going to throw obstacles, stones, bricks and whatever else at you. Don't even duck. You just stand and let God do the rest." We inherited a faith filled foundation from our parents. Because we know that not everyone was blessed to be raised by parents of faith like ours, we've made it our mission to spread hope to the hopeless.

It's been two years since we've moved to the Albany area. You can't help but notice those in authority who have the capability to empower families in our community but chose not to. You hear these people talk about the problems but not once suggest or even try to implement a solution. (If it ain't you say "Amen", if it is say "Oh me" Repent and Strive to Do Better)

There are a lot of organizations working tirelessly in the background to help reunite, educate and employ families. These are usually the ones who are working towards a mission not a motive. My husband met earlier this year with a "city leader" to discuss starting a program that will help young men get out of the system and back to work. This city official's response? "Man, if I do that, I'll lose $5000 a month."  Message sent and received.  It's more profitable to keep our young men in the system than out. The "city official" did apologize for blurting out his initial response and said that he would  meet with my husband and further discuss. That was nearly six months ago. No meeting followed.

Why am I writing about all of this you ask? Because I woke up mad but motivated. God gave me the gift of  pen and on many levels I haven't used to my fullest capabilities. I (Bridgett) don't have a pulpit (don't need one either) but I do have a pen and a keyboard.... I plan to use them both like never before. Timeout for sitting quietly. It's time to be a voice for people who have yet to discover their own. Travis and I have faced many obstacles since we started evangelizing through GO Ministries. We were told that our ministry had no meaning. But 18 productions and 2000 plus souls later, we beg to differ. We couldn't get the financial support needed to operate the FEP's job training program so now I'm operating it from home. Yet, God is still affording us the opportunity to help people with their career and education goals. We refuse to live in a shallow mindset of "Well my family is healthy and happy so why should I worry? "We choose to be an example of perseverance to anyone who has a call (whether in ministry or business). So please don't give up. Pray and get creative!


Albany, Georgia is the 4th poorest city in the nation and that's a shame. The Good Life City? I respectfully ask. For who? Maybe a one time...but you know what? We have just enough faith in God to believe that it can be again. To every organization who's SINCERELY working to help restore life in this city, we stand by you in prayer and helps. We plan on establishing our family roots here. We don't mind the hardwork this will entail. But first, the clichés, greed and hidden agendas have got to go.

Our young people are growing up and moving away. Whenever we ask them why they choose to leave Albany, they all say the same thing. "There is no opportunity here. Besides, it's not about what you know. It's who you know."

This email is for the person who is struggling with whether or not they should call it quits. God said "DON'T". Never let the "smile in your face but knife in your back scaled eyed naysayers" cloud your dreams. God gave them to you for a reason and the last time I checked, he hasn't nor plans on retiring. Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise." Hebrew 10:35-36


It's okay to get angry...the bible says to be ye angry but don't sin....jump in and Do Something..

Never Wear White After Labor Day...Cliche?

During a recent get-together, a young lady asked me if it was still wrong to wear white after Labor day. Since I was sporting a white top at the time, I responded "I don't have a clue." I've heard of this age old fashion rule but never really understood it so I decided to do some research and check it out. Although it's been around for over 50 years, I discovered there is no ONE reason as to why this rule was so greatly enforced.

Some believed that lighter colors where only meant for the summer months. Image consultant, Nancy Penn, suggests white reflects light and heat. She says "wearing white would make you cooler in winter, and thus should be avoided." Others believed it was all about social status and etiquette. Additionally, the affluent class used to wear white when they vacationed in warmer regions during the winter. The color white was considered to be the 'color of leisure'. Lastly, some believed clothing should match the colors of the season. After Labor Day, when leaves begin to change color, clothing styles should shift to earthy tones to match the browns, reds and oranges of autumn leaves. One exception to this longstanding tradition includes brides, who typically wear white wedding dresses regardless of the season.

I visited a few fashion websites to learn their views on the matter. Here is what they had to say:

• Whites were shown with hair off the face, perhaps a pop of color at the mouth, and toned-down shoes, as if to proclaim that right now, white is the opposite of frivolous. Though the colorless color is definitely not just for the rich anymore, wearing all white still sends a message that's a bit standoffish. www.elle.com

• When shopping for winter whites make sure to look for heftier pieces and steer clear of flimsy, sheer fabrics. That being said, clever styling can help you bring your summer whites into cooler months. Use layering and mixed textures to give your lighter pieces weight. And don’t be afraid to mix in shades of off-white and cream. www.fasionista.com/ Ann Deutsh.

• When it comes to wearing white after Labor Day remember this, linen and light cottons are out and cashmere, heavy cotton, and corduroy are in. www.bostonsportswoman.com

For whatever the reason, I am tickled pink at the fact that this rule was created and followed by so many people who had no idea of its origin and meaning. On the other hand, it is important to remember fashion etiquette when applying for a job, attending a business meeting, conference or networking.

I'm not a Fashion expert but my advice would be to "Do You?" Only you can define you. Choose a fashion sense that reflects your taste and style then WORK IT!!!

 

 

BMackWrites is Lady Elite Consulting

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Why I Love Him Like I Do

Was counting my blessings today and came across this video I posted on youtube three years ago. My testimony of how God has blessed my family time and time again. Click below to view.

 

Many Blessings!

 

She Chose to Keep on Walking

She was taught about Christ the Savior, no sooner than she was born from the womb
Fervently taught by her parents  about Heaven's glory and Hell's gloom
She was taught to always stand up for what she knew was Godly right.
She was taught to never give up and continue to stay in the fight.
She took her first steps as a little girl ...and she started walking.

Growing up in life, some things made her happy, others made her sad
Somethings uplifted her spirit, somethings made her raging mad
But she kept her eyes on Jesus and she decided...to keep on walking.

In the school yard she was peculiar, talking about Jesus, wearing long dresses
Raising the eyebrows of fellow classmates who wondered about this Christ she professes
She was unusual but....she kept on walking.

At a young age she discovered her gift of singing in angelic praise
Promising to serve her Lord through out her breathing days
Shirley Ceaser, Clark Sisters, Canton Spirituals, Mighty Clouds of Joy too.
Played from the 1980s record player in our family's living room.
She sang eloquently and......she kept on walking.

As she blossomed into young womanhood, God anointed her personality
She had the gift of brightening a room and singing praise to God Almighty
She had a sense of humor that could make anyone's bad day good

She constantly gave to others always helping out whenever she could
She was determined and.....she kept on walking.

An assault at a young age would plague her with headaches throughout her days
Doctors said "Healing? There no way."
But she kept the faith and ...she kept on walking.

She feel in love and became a wife and then to two little ones she birthed life
They became the Beards. Hand in Hand, they kept on walking.

Some people tried to bring her down but she stood tall on solid ground.
She kept focused and...she kept on walking.

She always graced a welcoming smile
Reminding others of Christ worthwhile
Beaming with joy...she kept on walking.

The night before she died, she was filled with unspeakable joy
Posted on Facebook, Till I meet Jesus. Looking forward to the weekend with the hubby, little girl and baby boy
She was preparing...to never stop walking.

In the morning light, God revealed to her Heaven's light. Imagine that. What a beautiful sight!
It was her time...toward the light...she chose to keep on walking.

Tell the truth. Shame the Devil.
God elevated her to another level.
She now sings for Heaven's record label and she sits at God's Holy table.

Aren't you glad?...She kept on walking. ©2011


                                                                                                                                
                                                                                                                                    For You Tot

 



My Sister's 2nd Birthday in Heaven

Her Angels

This Labor Day weekend also marks what would have been my sister's 32nd birthday here on earth. Instead, Latoshia celebrates her 2nd birthday in Heaven. Tomorrow morning my family and I will release birthday balloons into the heavens in honor of her memory. We can't see her children this weekend so it's a little difficult but still I am greatful to God for those two precious angels.

She lives on through their smiles and comical antics.


Top Left  Right: Bridgett and Angela
Bottom Left to Right: Tommy Jr and Latoshia

I pray I don't offend anyone when I say this but I find myself a fan of certain scenes from the TV reality show "The Braxtons." I usually don't promote reality TV because of it's negative impact on the its' viewers but I can't help but giggle from some (notice I said SOME) of their sisterly quarrels. It reminds me so much of my own sisters. To some degree The Braxtons are like an "unsaved" version of who we are as sisters. Tamar reminds me of Toshia because she is the comical loud one. Towanda is a mix of me and Angela because of her militant demeanor. Even though she is my least favorite of the sisters, Toni and I are alike because she's the oldest and because of her tone of voice. My sisters used to tell me when we would bicker "We hate that calm counselor's voice of yours!" (I knew they hated it that's why I did it..lol)

I must admit, I'm still not happy with having to live life without Toshia. But still I've learned a lot. I'm learning what it truly means to love unconditionally. I'm learning to make the most of each moment. I'm learning how to help others in spite of my own pain. I'm learning what it truly means to forgive. I'm learning that what I thought was the breaking of me is actually the making of me.

This weekend I encourage you to enjoy your families. Make the most of each moment and if it's possible make amends with those who you haven't spoken to in a while. Even if your love is initially rejected, leave it on the table for them to accept when they are ready and walk away knowing that you did what was right in the eyes of God.

Labor Day is about celebrating the economic and social contributions of American workers. Let's also celebrate our family members who gave of themselves so that we could be where we are today.Make your Labor Day your Labor to Love. Drive Safe, Eat Hearty, Laugh Hard, Take Pictures, Be Silly and Make Memories.

Left to Right: Toshia and Bridgett

Mom, Is that gospel?

I can't tell you how many times we have been riding in the car listening to the radio when a song would come and one of my children would ask "Mom is that a gospel song?" My response would be "Shhh, let me listen......they said Jesus so "we good we good we good".

Honestly.... that's a shame.
I don't listen to the radio much anymore. I prefer to listen to music of my choosing through my CD player. Don't get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with tuning in to the radio. I still do it from time to time but I drew the line when I heard a "gospel" radio talk show host give Beyonce praise for her song "Single Ladies" Dance contest citing that God was using her to promote marriage while helping to improve the economy....RIIGHHHT.. thaaatttss what she was doing....



 



 

As some of you may know, my daughters love interpretative dance. They have been blessed to serve under some wonderful dance leaders. Their first dance instructor was Sis April Boyd of Christian Fellowship Church in Warner Robins and now they are taught by Sis Darlene Fowler of Victory Tabernacle in Albany, GA. My oldest daughter is constantly listening to music and scanning YouTube for inspiration.

 

She came into my room this past weekend after spending some time on YouTube. With a funny look on her face she asked, "Mom, does Detrick Haddon still sing gospel." I said "I guess. Why?". She replied " I just watched this video he made of the song "Beautiful Soul". There was a girl in booty shorts dancing in the background and he was talking to a woman. I guess it's for a movie?"

 

So I went to check it out. Let's watch....

 

 

I am learning through research that in order to increase both record sales and target markets some "gospel' artists will make the decision to change their style of music and lyrics. "Gospel" songs that omit words such as God, Jesus, Christ, Savior and Holy Spirit etc. can be used in the secular world as well. In addition, some "gospel" artists admit to collaborating with secular artists so that they can reach a wider market. I admit. It's a tempting concept, especially if this is how you make your living. However, the last time I checked, God said that HE would supply all our needs according to his riches and glory. (Phillipians 4:19) I know that the wealth of the wicked is laid up for the just (Proverbs 13:22) but this doesn't mean that we are to conform to the ways of the world either (Romans 12:2) When something is "laid up"...it's in storage, arranged and awaiting. The spoils of war are only awarded after God fights our battle and rewards us for standing true to his word. Besides, how can two walk together except they agree? I know that people make decisions BC (before Christ) that leaves visible marks that last a lifetime. I'm not dogging that. On the other hand, never in my life have I seen a growing trend of unusual body piercings, tattoos, sagging pants and bootylicious clothing being worn on the bodies of "saints."

 

The world pulled the oldest trick in the book by saying through forced tears "You are judging me. You make me feel bad about myself. You make being saved sound boring. Besides God knows my heart." And as a body of Christ, we fell for it. Hook. Line and Sinker. So in order for them not to feel bad said "Oh no baby I'm sorry. I didn't mean that. Do you Boo. Be who God made you to be. You can be saved and still be cool. See watch this." And we conformed to look, dress and act like them to make them feel comfortable around us. What we should have said was "Baby, I love you but that's me making you feel bad. This ain't even me talking to you. It's God talking to you through me. What you are feeling is not offense. It's conviction."

 

As children of God, we should be prepared for the pouting, blank looks, silent cricket moments and "would you please sit" attitudes? Jesus got them all time. It comes with the territory. What love reading about Jesus the most is his loving but firm stance.

 

When my daughter asked "Mom, is that gospel?" My reply was simple. I replied "Baby, if you have to ask, that ain't it."

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deadly shooting near the Empire State Building

As Reported By Jason Sickles on Yahoo Lookout....

Eight people are believed to be wounded and at least two people are dead Friday after a shooting outside the Empire State Building in the Midtown area of Manhattan. The two victims include the gunman, who was shot and killed by police near the tourist entrance of the landmark skyscraper.

The shooting occurred at around 9 a.m. ET at Fifth Avenue and West 34th Street. The New York Post reported that the incident was the act of a disgruntled former employee. The gunman was fired from his job on Thursday and returned to his office Friday morning to target his boss, local and federal officials told NBC News, according to a tweet.

The shooter followed his coworker down 33rd Street, and shot him outside of Legend's Bar, the Post reported. It is unclear if he fired into a crowd of pedestrians outside of the Empire State Building, or if pedestrians were caught in crossfire, reported the New York Daily News. A bystander was killed.

 

Oddly enough, my mind goes back to rapper Jay Z, who in 2009 released the song"New York" which the contained lyrics that stated "life starts when the church ends."

 

Given tragedies that continue to plagued our world, I beg to differ.

 

Saint's in a word......PRAY.

 

 

Crunch Crunch Cereal

Mom and Dad

My mom was famous for creating precautions to protect us as children. When we were introduced to "big people" breakfast cereal, she took the precaution of crunching them up to make sure we didn't choke while eating.

Now, here I am, a 36 year old wife and mom who absolutely cannot eat my Frosted Flakes without crunching them up first. They simply do not taste the same. I've tried to psych myself out mentally. I've said to myself "Bridgett, you are a grown woman. Just pour the cereal, pour the milk, say the blessing and eat it!

Didn't work.

I tried switching to Grapenuts...I didn't like them. 

Me and Angela

My sister Angela admits to having this same problem. We both have to sneak and crunch when eating our cereal in public. There's nothing worse then having someone look at you with concern  and ask slowly "What you doing?"



Kayla and Bre

Needless to say when I started having children, I decided to use this same"precautionary" method. I got schooled quickly because our (then) two year old daughter MaKayla, wasn't having it. I remember her giving me the same "What are you doing?" look as I crunched her cereal and then saying in tears "You broke it!"

With a sigh of relief I didn't push the issue. After all, why should they inherit my cereal crunching complex?

That was ten plus years ago...

This morning while the kids were getting ready for school, I decided to put on a load of laundry when all of a sudden I heard the sound of dry cereal crunching in a bowl....it was MaKayla. She's caught my disease. I chuckled to myself. Then I heard God say "Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he won't depart from it." Proverbs 22:6

In this instance, God reminded me that even though our children may not accept the lessons we try to teach them at first, if we hold true to what's right....without saying a word they will follow. 

Kayla Today

I asked MaKayla when did she start crunching her cereal. She shrugged her shoulders and said " I dunno but you are the one who got me started."

Our children watch us everyday. Not just in church. They pay close attention to how we handle our spouses, our jobs and life struggles.  As parents, we are our children's first and prime example. We see our children as angels when they are born but they still don't know God. They learn God through our standard of living.

They mimick what they see. If you cuss in one sentence and pray in the other. Your children will cuss in one sentence and pray in the other. If you tell them to leave them "lil boys" alone but you still sleeping with BobJohnDave&Rick; they are gonna find them a BobJohnDave&Rick.

There are a few exceptions to rule. There are some kids who decide early on they will NOT become a product of their environment. But this is rare. And yes, there are excellent teachers, youth ministers, mentors and counselors who are dedicated to helping our children. STILL, parents, learning starts with you. Give your children the best gift any parent can give. Give them a standard. Be their standard. If you don't have a standard, try God's standard. His word teaches us an abundance on how to live and parent. I promise you with his advice, you can't fail.

 

 

Escape to Savannah

For our 16th wedding anniversary my husband and I decided to take a getaway to Savannah Georgia. Savannah came highly recommended as the perfect place for some much needed "couple time" and relaxation. My husband was able to secure a great rate at the Hyatt Regency through Priceline's "Name Your Price" program. (Travis and I were both excited about staying in an upscale hotel.)

The Hyatt is a beautiful hotel and is conveniently located in the historic district and along Riverstreet. We were in walking distance of restaurants, boutiques and touring sites. One of the first restaurants we visited once we arrived was 'Five Guys and Fries. The employees were friendly and made us feel welcome.We ordered bacon cheeseburgers and fries. Not only were they delicious but HUGE....a sure diet buster. As much as I wanted to, I could not finish my meal. We decided to take a walk to work off our first belly buster meal.

The Savannah streets are beautifully lined with aged oak trees perfectly arched to umbrella tourists from the sun. The next morning Travis and I decided to have breakfast at Henry's, a quaint restaurant located on Drayton St. I became an instant fan of their chocolate chip pecan pancakes and Travis fell in love with their southwest omelet. We were fortunate to meet the owner, Henry who was just as warm and inviting as our meal. His menu prices were quite reasonable and the serving portions was quite satisfying!

My husband and I enjoyed our early morning walks after breakfast. I was able to purchase a cute gray and silver purse at Fine Things Under Twenty, a boutique located on River Street. I was especially excited when they helped to find a bird brooch for my mom to wear in memory of my little sister at one of their sisters shops.(My sister was our family's songbird). Fine Things Under Twenty has a great selection of items all for under $20.


Travis can have a serious sweet tooth at times. So I'm sure you can imagine how happy he was when we visited River Street Sweets, a candy shop famous for their pralines. Customers are given a sample of their pralines when entering the store. My husband truly became a kid in a candy shop. He couldn't wait to get back to our room and dive into the pralines he purchased. Their
prices are higher than most but well worth it!

On day two, we decided to have lunch at Cilantros, a local Mexican restaurant. If you are in the mood for a relaxed atmosphere and a mouthwatering chimichanga, visit this place!!!


There is so much to see in Savannah. The city is rich with history and southern charm. Savannah takes you back to a time when life was simpler. Hours would fly before Travis and I knew it. We laughed, we giggled and we enjoyed the history lessons during our walks.....It was nice :)

On our last day in Savannah, Travis and I took a 20 minute drive over to Tybee Island to enjoy the beach waves. The weather was absolutely perfect!!!

I was excited to finally be able to go to Bonefish Grill after hearing Travis brag about it over and over after he visited one in Washington during a recent business trip. He guaranteed me that I would love their Bang Bang Shrimp and he was right! Don't believe me??? Check out the before and after pictures below...lol

 All in all, our trip was a wonderful and much needed experience. My family has had to deal with quite a bit of loss over the past couple of years. I didn't realize how much of a mental toll it had taken on me until my wonderful husband whisked me away to a place that help me to remember the true meaning of relaxation. Savannah provides a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of life. I'm looking forward to visiting it again sometime soon.

Moth at my Feet

I was blessed to be raised by a mom who was the perfect example of charity (love and giving). She wasted no time in being there for others during their time of grief. She has always been a counselor  to those who were emotionally broken. She knew just when to give tough love and hugs and kisses. Our home was a home to many. She and my dad were not only faithful to our church but they were dedicated to helping the community as well. Their only motive….was to please God. My goal was to be like them when I grew up.

Their passion overflowed onto their children. As a Child→ Teen→ Young Adult→ Wife→ Mom→ Woman of God→ and Business Woman, I worked hard to manifest my inherited call. When my husband answered God’s call to start GO Ministries, my excitement grew. Not only where we going to be a help within the four walls of the church but now God was using us in the same manner as Jesus (who ministered through parables) to reach the world.

I admit, it took me a minute to fully get on board with starting GO Ministries. But once I allowed my ears to become keen to God’s voice; my reservations ceased.

Still, I wasn’t prepared for the skeptics. I wasn’t prepared for the people who would question our motives. I wasn’t prepared for the doors that would close in our faces because people were afraid that we were trying to sneak and open a church. I definitely wasn't prepared for the people who claimed they were supporting us when they were actually hoping for our failure.

I knew my husband had a call on his life but I began to question my own call. I was overwhelmed by the challenges we were facing. My naivety fooled me into believing that since God called us our only fight would be against the enemy and people of the world. Insecurity began to set in. Then….my sister passed away. It seemed like God forgot about us.

I continued to work in ministry but I felt like I was in a constant fog. I couldn’t think straight through the grief and weariness. I tried to avoid my own pain by helping others through their own…..AND IT HELPED!!! Once we started the job training program, I could see where God was using my pain to help others through their own. I’ve counseled young women who were victims of incest, rape, domestic violence and neglect. My passion for helping the hurt grew. The need was great and before we knew it, a waiting list for services began to form. Funding to support our program was needed and consistently denied. We were told that while our intentions were admirable, helping “those people” (meaning to the low income single moms) would be a waste of time. We were trying to help the “hungry” but were denied help from the “fed” while they ate their steak dinners. It was totally frustrating!

My husband and I took a vacation to celebrate our 16^th wedding anniversary. We wanted to spend some time away, enjoy each other and clear our minds. Savannah was absolutely beautiful and just what we needed. It’s amazing how God can minister through relaxation. We came back refreshed and with a new plan of action in place. But God didn’t stop there. Some of our decisions are bittersweet and God knew that so he sent confirmation in the most beautiful way. Just as my husband and I were leaving one afternoon, a moth flew and landed two steps from my foot. Wings together, it was shaped like shield with a perfect shaped cross on its back. I heard the voice of God say “I’m with you every step of the way.”

We will be making three announcements in a series of three blogs. So stay tuned and be on the lookout for the subject heading (ANNOUNCEMENT)

Get Excited!!! We are!!!

Soul Man...Umph Really

I don't have to watch TV Land's newest sitcom, "Soul Man" to know that I already hate it. Starring Cedric the Entertainer and Neicy Nash, this new show depicts the life of a newly "called" pastor and his hesitant wife. The previews alone have already established that this show will give the audience a false representation of what being a Pastor and Pastor's Wife is all about.

I have to give to Hollywood. They are doing a great job at trying to demoralize Christianity and God’s standard. I have to admit. I too have been guilty of being entertained by some of the movies and shows that all along was hurting the church tremendously. We complain about homosexuality but we laugh at the movies where men wear dress in drag. We complain about the lack of abstinence but the show about four promiscuous old ladies living in one house still tickle us well after the show has ended. We complain about the language of today's youth but with all of the "cussin" preachers you see on TV; how could you blame them?

Cedric the Entertainer and Neicy Nash are two talented actors but here is where I draw the line. The Pastor Wives I grew up with and served under didn't have bodacious bust lines. They loved their members tremendously. They held hands during times of mourning. Helped to welcome new babies. Spoke words of wisdom and mentored women and young girls in the community. They loved their husbands and raised obedient children. The Pastors I grew up with and served under where mighty men of valor. They kept their homes in order. They taught God's word and lived by it. They were faithful, honest and treated everyone fairly.

Simply put, as a body of Christ; let's remember to remain watchful about what we allow to pass through our TV screens. It's time to take a stand. Yes, laughter is wonderful and healthy; but only in good clean fun.

I've included a youtube video that will help start your day off with some hilarity. I don't know if Gary Owens is a Christian but this act is clean and funny. I pray it helps to give your workweek a great start.

Have A Blessed Day!!!

HABD

BMackWrites

©2012

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WC8Kwkxk-BI

CPL Steve Sutton and the Beauty of American Love

Today I saw something that will warm my heart forever. As you may know, Lance Corporal Steve Sutton of Leesburg, Georgia was killed in combat in Afghanistan 12 days ago. Today residents of both Lee and Dougherty County lined Slappey Blvd to show their respects to the family. The line of supporters stretched for miles. Many people held American flags while others stood in somber silence. Today, I saw the unity in what most people call two racially divided towns. Today, I saw strangers show love and respect to the family of a fallen soldier. Today, I saw people obey God's word when he commanded us to comfort them that mourn. Today, I didn't see black or white; Instead I saw red, white and blue. It was absolutely beautiful!!! I was able to take two pictures of supporters before the family car arrived. However, I couldn't bring myself to record the motorcade. I simply wanted to honor the moment. Today it wasn't about sensationalism, fame or stardom. Today it was about honor, respect and displaying the Beauty of American Love. I am no stranger to loss. My little sister passed away last year. I (like I'm sure most of you) understand the deep ache that will forever burn in the Sutton family's heart. It is my prayer that the love shown today will help comfort the Sutton family. I've never met CPL Steve Sutton or his family but their name is one that I will always remember not only because he died serving our country but also because through his death, he was able to bring two divided towns together. In a time when it seems that most people have lost touch with the true meaning of family, unity and Christian comfort, it is a blessing to see that there are still some who hold true to these values and the Beauty of American Love.

Many Prayers to the Sutton Family