More From Marty Smith

Hi, folks!

I guess first, I want to thank God above all else for showing me a different path, for helping me to understand some things I didn’t truly know before (but thought I did). Aside from becoming more involved with my church (and its community food distribution), no matter how busy I am, I make time to talk with someone that I sense is in need of an ear and some understanding words. I’ve been surprised by different folks in my community who suffer from some form of anxiety and/or depression due to traumatic events, loss, or other experiences in life . . . I’m not a counselor, but I do try to listen and share my experiences or wisdom I’ve been given from my previous counselor, sermons, scripture, or other readings.

God gives each of us a purpose in life. We just don’t always recognize that purpose/direction, until a harsh experience gives us “a wake-up call” and puts us “back on course.” I don’t believe that we are being punished through these experiences, which is something I did wonder about in the past. But I do believe that some of these harsh experiences readjust our thinking . . . they remind us who we are, who we should be, and what is really important in our lives as well as others’ lives.