By VERNA BROCK
Last week I spotted a church sign that read “Make your life an exclamation, not an explanation.” I’ve been musing on it ever since, but it seems to me the message is to urge us to fulfill our purpose with enthusiasm, rather than the need to explain why we did not. On that note, I want to congratulate Bill Snowden and his staff on three years of pouring their enthusiasm into their purpose of providing a truly important, truly local newspaper. They each have labored long hours in service to our better understanding, and for that I say “Thank you all!”
Also three years ago this week Russia invaded Ukraine. I am haunted by images of families strolling on a beautiful, clear afternoon, absolutely oblivious that the next day the bombs would begin falling on their cities. Journalists urgently quizzing Ukrainians about the possible threat were met with disbelief trussed with deep denial. Russia, even Vladimar Putin, wouldn’t be so…foolhardy…as to blatantly try to steal an entire country!
The next day the scene had completely changed as bombs fell and tanks rushed across borders aiming for the breadbasket of the world. Citizens frantically ran, as the bravest among them turned to repel the invaders. Here we are, three brutal years later, and the brave Ukraine people stand on the precipice, watching in horror at current events challenging their very existence. Where do you stand? I am that person, that 100% idealistic one, who still believes in “truth, justice and the American way.” My prayer is that my ideals will prevail.
Happy birthday wishes to Robert Manning and Justin Smith! Hope your special days were perfect.
This coming weekend (March 1-March 3) will see the 48th annual reenactment of the Battle of Natural Bridge, in Woodville. It commemorates the 160th anniversary of the actual battle, which kept Tallahassee from falling into Union hands. The reenactment is done with great reverence for the sacrifice of soldiers on both sides of the conflict, and still can barely scratch the surface of the days-long battle. If you have never attended, you should try to do so.
Next Sunday everyone is invited to join the Wakulla United Methodist Church at 10 a.m. for Communion service, followed by a fellowship covered dish dinner. Y’all come!
Your prayers are so appreciated by Ouida Vick,Patty Moxley, the family of Judy Floyd, Dennis Howell, Molly Claire Stephens, Scott Causey. Debra Giles, Rev. Tommy Stone, Steve Hearn, Cooper Rudd, the Brazier family, and the family of Beau Fortune.
