Being Nice

I've been thinking a lot lately about people who slip through the cracks. People like J.T. Haggerty. People like Cho Seung-Hui. Yesterday I was talking with a high school junior about what the problem is in our country right now. She said "we just don't know how to treat each other."

I think she's right. There are people all around us who are lonely, who hate themselves, who don't think that the world has a place for them. What does it take to reach out to these people? Apparently not much. Check out this video...

This guy got some 5,000 phone calls in the first 24 hours after he posted. He's not a professional counselor. His video isn't flashy. He just made a simple offer. Yes, there are people out there who need to talk.

I'm not recommending sending your cell number out into cyberspace (in fact - please don't). But I challenge anyone who reads this to take a look around your school, your workplace, whatever, and reach out to someone you think might need a listening ear or a kind word. It's not that hard, and sometimes, it can mean the difference between life and death. That's my food for thought this week.

Youth group as usual this weekend - 6-7:30 at church. Jeremy will be gone, but Amy and crew have it all under control.

Looking ahead - please tell your friends and family to save their pennies and come out for our big church yardsale on Saturday May 12th. We've got some seriously awesome stuff for sale (who wouldn't want a ceramic dog-shaped ashtray??!!). Bring your allowance - you won't be dissapointed.

So until next time, Be Nice...

Time to Laugh

Its been a tough few weeks for our community and our nation. We have cried together, and that was what we needed to do. But this weekend we will also have a chance to laugh together...

Saturday night is our first ever "Annual Dessert Cabaret and Silent Auction." The event features a special performance by Simon & Garfunkel (pictured at left) as well as an amazing array of talent from our church, from rock 'n roll to broadway to comedy to classical. There will also be yummy desserts, and a chance to bid on some cool gifts and prizes. 7pm in fellowship hall - $8 adults/$5 kids. See you there!

Also, don't miss youth group this Sunday at 6, as Amy & crew continue their new "creative streak" with some deep thoughts and crazy games. Be there!

In Memorium

J.T. Haggerty - HMHS Junior - Died April 8, 2007

33 Virginia Tech students and faculty - Died April 16th, 2007

May you come safely to shore

across the dark ocean

and know

that even in the darkest depths

there is hope to be found

and peace

-Mary Taylor

"...do not grieve as others do, who have no hope.

For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again,

even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him

those who have died."

-I Thessalonians 4:13-14