Charles, this is so kind of you! I realized I wrote it so fast that I had to correct a few grammar things after I published! It means so much that you read it and left me such an inspiring comment to keep going. I am humbled! Thank you. ox
While I don't think the USA is dying, I do think our great nation is seriously fractured and wounded. I agree also that God alone can save us and only if we repent and turn from evil!
J.D. Vance is an excellent choice for Trump's VP. He respects his humble roots. I grew up in small town America and can profoundly appreciate the common person whi labors to live and who does feel forgotten. I have no problem with people being wealthy, as long as they do not think they are better than everyone else. Not one penny of that wealth goes with us when we leave this world.
" Hillbilly Elegy" is a powerful book, blunt and realistic. I myself would prefer the company of a street-smart, grounded working class person who sticks with reality, then an " Elitist" who can be arrogant and stuck in their head.
I so appreciate you reading and commenting Wendy! And mostly I meant J.D.’s story/book. It was a lament and we always have to hope in God first. I feel His hand is most definitely on our country. We will have to err on the side of “we’ll know it when we see it and feel it” in terms of real change. Sending you a big hug and much love always. ox
Likewise, Deborah! A lament indeed, that book was just that. Lamenting is not a bad thing...the entire book of Lamentations is that...and yet it says His mercy is new every morning. Indeed! (I think that verse was in Lamentations...) W. E. W.
Hi Deb, so sorry for my LONG silence. Honestly, we’re overwhelmed packing up our house in Ecuador, again, to go to the US for one year to help our daughter transition. She will be studying at the same Bible institute our son went to. Please pray for us. I think I’m getting too old for these moves.
We are sad about what is happening in the US, politically, socially and spiritually. The solution is not in a single candidate. Only God can bring peace and restore unity. He is still in control. The best thing we can do is pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). People need the Lord, from the top on down.
Oh Ned, I’ve been thinking about you all! I know it must have been a crazy challenge to get home. Prayers for you all and for your daughter and her transition. I 100% agree with you about what you said. God is on the throne! We’ll trust in Him for the real change. I know His hand is on this country. He is definitely the God of many chances. Much love to you and the family. We are heading home to see my mama soon. I will write again. ox
When Trump announced his vice president candidate as JD Vance, I was like, “Huh?” “Who is that?” I honestly try to stay out of the fray of politics, And stay neutral. A watcher. I trust Trump has a reason for choosing him and I would really like to read this book you recommend Deborah. Thank you.
I'm reading it. Others I know are also. :) Love you, Deb! Keep giving out hope and stories, truth and kindness, and the occasional gentle nudge to think!
Jenni, It's another important story of "inclusiveness" in the poverty/struggle of so many. Like I said to Jenn, above, it's miraculous to see anyone rise out of a situation like that. We are called to walk alongside of our Maker and see people as Children of God. That's the nudge! Be curious about everything and everyone. Love you back! ox
Wow! You sound like such a cool parent to have! A parent who is aware of these things about their child is truly a special gift. It's also rare to come by from my experience. That was my favorite part about this read. You talking about your child. Such a beautiful level of acceptance, and trust. The young age of someone doesn't phase you a bit. I bet you're willing to learn from anyone :)
Well aren’t you the nicest person to show up in my Substack Nick! Thank you so much for such a lovely comment. I was raised by some really cool parents and I love people. Really, our only job in life, parent or not is to show love, kindness and compassion. I know we won’t always be “liked,” or we might really feel irked by others that push too many buttons, or are disingenuous, but we can also walk on and pray over them in our heart. It’s great to watch people live out their purpose. Ian’s 29 now and lives/works in San Francisco with the drug addicted, which often comes with mental illness, like schizophrenia. It’s a really hard job, so he got into rock climbing and found a great community, plus he loves music like us - so he’s got another few passions to decompress, which is important.
Thank also for subscribing to me! I will head on over to your Substack! Take good care. ox
It makes me smile to hear you say that Deborah! And to hear that your son is doing this great work is wonderful, people are getting the help that they need. I really look forward to reading more of your writing. Keep carrying that beautiful energy 💯
It means so much more to see J.D.’s story.. and then look at him now! Anyone, from any background, belief, race, political affiliate, etc., it’s truly amazing! His wife is so interesting and special too. Of course, I hold back on all of the politicians until I see real change. Thank you for this Bob! ox
Jenn, it's excellent and really gives you an account of why so many in our country are hopeless and then hopeful in seeing someone, anyone, that wasn't a lifetime career politician step into the fray. It shows real life struggle in an unrecognized place. Another important story that is meant to "include" all kinds of people. It's miraculous to see anyone rise out of situations like this. I'm always amazed. ox
You just keep amazing me, Deborah.
Charles, this is so kind of you! I realized I wrote it so fast that I had to correct a few grammar things after I published! It means so much that you read it and left me such an inspiring comment to keep going. I am humbled! Thank you. ox
I’ve met JD and think he has a real chance of bringing younger voters to Trump.
That is so cool! He is a very interesting and brilliant young man with an equally interesting and brilliant wife :)
<3 this!
Yesss! Thank you Mike! I am soooo hoping we get to see you and Denise soon!
Much love and congrats again to you both! Thank you for reading! oxox
Deborah, a wonderful piece!
While I don't think the USA is dying, I do think our great nation is seriously fractured and wounded. I agree also that God alone can save us and only if we repent and turn from evil!
J.D. Vance is an excellent choice for Trump's VP. He respects his humble roots. I grew up in small town America and can profoundly appreciate the common person whi labors to live and who does feel forgotten. I have no problem with people being wealthy, as long as they do not think they are better than everyone else. Not one penny of that wealth goes with us when we leave this world.
" Hillbilly Elegy" is a powerful book, blunt and realistic. I myself would prefer the company of a street-smart, grounded working class person who sticks with reality, then an " Elitist" who can be arrogant and stuck in their head.
GO with God, Donald Trump and J.
D. Vance! Wendy
I so appreciate you reading and commenting Wendy! And mostly I meant J.D.’s story/book. It was a lament and we always have to hope in God first. I feel His hand is most definitely on our country. We will have to err on the side of “we’ll know it when we see it and feel it” in terms of real change. Sending you a big hug and much love always. ox
Likewise, Deborah! A lament indeed, that book was just that. Lamenting is not a bad thing...the entire book of Lamentations is that...and yet it says His mercy is new every morning. Indeed! (I think that verse was in Lamentations...) W. E. W.
Exactly! I wrote a piece about Lamentations awhile ago. I love your comments Wendy. ox
Hi Deb, so sorry for my LONG silence. Honestly, we’re overwhelmed packing up our house in Ecuador, again, to go to the US for one year to help our daughter transition. She will be studying at the same Bible institute our son went to. Please pray for us. I think I’m getting too old for these moves.
We are sad about what is happening in the US, politically, socially and spiritually. The solution is not in a single candidate. Only God can bring peace and restore unity. He is still in control. The best thing we can do is pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). People need the Lord, from the top on down.
Blessings to you and yours. OX
Oh Ned, I’ve been thinking about you all! I know it must have been a crazy challenge to get home. Prayers for you all and for your daughter and her transition. I 100% agree with you about what you said. God is on the throne! We’ll trust in Him for the real change. I know His hand is on this country. He is definitely the God of many chances. Much love to you and the family. We are heading home to see my mama soon. I will write again. ox
When Trump announced his vice president candidate as JD Vance, I was like, “Huh?” “Who is that?” I honestly try to stay out of the fray of politics, And stay neutral. A watcher. I trust Trump has a reason for choosing him and I would really like to read this book you recommend Deborah. Thank you.
I'm reading it. Others I know are also. :) Love you, Deb! Keep giving out hope and stories, truth and kindness, and the occasional gentle nudge to think!
Jenni, It's another important story of "inclusiveness" in the poverty/struggle of so many. Like I said to Jenn, above, it's miraculous to see anyone rise out of a situation like that. We are called to walk alongside of our Maker and see people as Children of God. That's the nudge! Be curious about everything and everyone. Love you back! ox
Deborah, well said! We. have. been. put. on. notice. 💯
Thank you Ginger! We truly are the change! Not much is in our control, except our behavior toward our fellow man and a lot of prayer! ox
We truly are. xoxo
so point on. and so forgotten among the coasters. i wrote about this way back when,
https://open.substack.com/pub/riclexel/p/what-the-hell-are-you-reading?r=bcx26&selection=753d8564-8220-4280-a161-8e1dd4ffb0bc&utm_campaign=post-share-selection&utm_medium=web
Thank you Ric! We're driving on a roadtrip so a bit slow here! I'll definitely look at your piece 🙌🏻 🚐💨
Wow! You sound like such a cool parent to have! A parent who is aware of these things about their child is truly a special gift. It's also rare to come by from my experience. That was my favorite part about this read. You talking about your child. Such a beautiful level of acceptance, and trust. The young age of someone doesn't phase you a bit. I bet you're willing to learn from anyone :)
Well aren’t you the nicest person to show up in my Substack Nick! Thank you so much for such a lovely comment. I was raised by some really cool parents and I love people. Really, our only job in life, parent or not is to show love, kindness and compassion. I know we won’t always be “liked,” or we might really feel irked by others that push too many buttons, or are disingenuous, but we can also walk on and pray over them in our heart. It’s great to watch people live out their purpose. Ian’s 29 now and lives/works in San Francisco with the drug addicted, which often comes with mental illness, like schizophrenia. It’s a really hard job, so he got into rock climbing and found a great community, plus he loves music like us - so he’s got another few passions to decompress, which is important.
Thank also for subscribing to me! I will head on over to your Substack! Take good care. ox
It makes me smile to hear you say that Deborah! And to hear that your son is doing this great work is wonderful, people are getting the help that they need. I really look forward to reading more of your writing. Keep carrying that beautiful energy 💯
Thank you Nick! ox
Watched the movie last night - FABULOUS! Can you only imagine how proud his mom must be, and how proud his grandmother would have been?
It means so much more to see J.D.’s story.. and then look at him now! Anyone, from any background, belief, race, political affiliate, etc., it’s truly amazing! His wife is so interesting and special too. Of course, I hold back on all of the politicians until I see real change. Thank you for this Bob! ox
That does sound excellent and rather inclusive. So many are left out and struggling. I will give it a go. Thanks, Deb!
I have never read it, but thank you, Deb, I’ll have to add it to my list!
Jenn, it's excellent and really gives you an account of why so many in our country are hopeless and then hopeful in seeing someone, anyone, that wasn't a lifetime career politician step into the fray. It shows real life struggle in an unrecognized place. Another important story that is meant to "include" all kinds of people. It's miraculous to see anyone rise out of situations like this. I'm always amazed. ox