SURE THING

Freedom of religion means all religions
(seen on a bumper sticker in upper Alabama)

Lost a neighbor back home over the holidays; heart attack. Known this person for over 20 years; surprised but not terribly shocked by the news. Saddened almost beyond words; they will be missed.

A relative, who also knew this neighbor well, and I, discussed the tragedies that seemed to plague this neighbor's life. It is my hope that they find peace, rest and joy in the after life. However, my relative could not help buy note that this person did not regularly attend church and that perhaps that was the cause of the turmoil in their life.

I totally disagree, especially since my neighbor, besides the occasionally gossip, was a person one would dig to have as a friend and they were not putting ill vibes out into the universe. Yes, everyone should have a spiritual walk and give respect to a God or the Higher Power of their choice. But that does not mean your life will be trouble free. Bad things happen to good people--that is a fact.

My neighbor's woes were not caused by her decision not to have a church home, or because she did not "praise Jesus" every time she greeted people. For all we know, behind closed doors, she could have been "praying Heaven down." Her misfortunes, although great in number, were just facts of life. But that's just my opinion...

Axe.

Currently Listening To: God Bless The Child by David Peaston, Just To Get By by Talib Kweli