Keep Encouraged, Even When Others Dump Dirt on You

I often find myself becoming concerned about others in my direct path and even others I have never met.

You often hear about the high unemployment, murder of our youth, critical funds cut, but we rarely hear about the forgotten individuals who suffer at the hands of bullies, senior abuse, women who are prisoners in their own homes, and struggling parents who want to do what is right for their families.

No matter how hard the struggles and complaints, we never hear about the outcome. We live day-by-day, travel to work and face co-workers and smile. I often wonder about those who have to wear different faces. One face of happiness and then the unthinkable... yes, the face of despair. Some have to deal with domestic violence, fear of walking in their neighborhood after commuting from the safety of their downtown offices.

Who are these individuals? Where do they come from? These individuals are everywhere; it could be any one of us.

I have a word of encouragement for you. I often tell others to find a quiet place in your home or in your car, and step outside yourself for a moment. Speak and ask questions for what you want and desire from your God or even yourself. Just ask what you want and your concerns. I have found myself walking along the bike/walking path, enjoying the outdoors. I often reach for my departed grandfather A.C. Smith's spirit and can feel his presence. Please note: Not a good sign to wander around in a zone like you are talking to yourself when in public.

I have felt the need to say this too many of you because this past month so many have dealt with a variety of issues. Now one thing that stands out is the destruction of self esteem.

I remember my cousin, Bishop Kenneth Franklin, had a sermon about, “The Goat in the Hole.” Three young boys dug a deep hole and tossed a goat into the hole. These young boys kept tossing dirt into the hole on top of the goat's back. The goat would shake off the dirt and put it under his feet. This went on for quite a while, until the goat had placed enough dirt under his feet and formed a mountain of dirt underneath him allowing him to step out of this deep hole. The goat just looked at the young men and then walked away.

We will always have those who will dump dirt on our backs, when they see you are in a hole. They will continue to try and bury you. I say to you, shake off their dirt and place it under your feet until you step out of the hole and come out on top.

Be encouraged, and remember that happiness always comes from within. No matter how hard the struggle, stay on the right path. Believe me, it works!