Seasons are changing. Protect your skin with sunscreen. Remember to come in for your annual checkup.
8
Victoria Good
14 Inspirations
Vickie Croston
18 Business Focus
Texas Generator Solutions
Community Calendar -22
Dear Gabby -6
Glorious Grandkids -11
Mustard Seed Moments -23
Pet Pals -7
Publisher’s Post -5
Puzzle Solutions -10
Sudoku Marketplace -12
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The weather has certainly been a topic of discussion since the beginning of the year. Whether freezing or pouring, 2024 has done its best to make sure we took notice of its arrival. I am delighted to be past the point where I walk outside, shiver, and yearn for warmer days. Knowing those warmer days are coming is exciting, especially when I consider the things that come along with them--like spring blooms, birds, bees….and baseball. I am not talking about professional baseball. I am an Astros fan, and we are not even going there. Spring always makes me think of softball leagues, little boys playing T-ball, and bigger kids playing high school ball. I love the ballpark.
My hubby Wes umpires softball in his “spare time,” and I sometimes get to ride to games with him and watch. The first time I did this, it was odd for me to sit in the stands without cheering for a specific team. I was pretty sure I would get weird looks if I were to cheer for the umpire. So, I just sat and watched. It did, however, make me think. As I sat there listening to fans love his calls or hate his calls, I wondered how many times I had been guilty of thinking I knew better than the umpire. I know Wes and I have both laughed about how much we “thought” we knew about volleyball until we became referees!
Whether you are parents or grandparents watching games this season, I encourage you to remember a few things. We hope kids learn good sportsmanship. Remember, you are also teaching your children and grandchildren about sportsmanship by how you react during, and after, games. They may act the same way one day. Would it make you proud? The other thing to remember is there are others in the stands affected by your words and actions. It may be the mother or grandmother of the youngster who isn’t quite as athletic as yours. If you groan aloud when that child strikes out, you may be wrecking that child’s self-confidence for the rest of the season…or pushing them toward not participating at all--not to mention the hurt you cause their family members. And, if you yell at the ump that he needs his eyes checked or he’s dumb – remember his family might be sitting next to you, too.
I recently saw a social media post that resonated with me. Remember when shopping, it’s not the national chain stores that support your child’s little league team – it’s your local businesses. I have recently had the opportunity to spend some time getting to know some local business owners in and around Cleveland, and we are so appreciative of all who support us in bringing positive news to our readers each month. Postcards is no different. We are here because of the advertisers in these pages. Please let them know you appreciate them!
Until next time,
~ KarenWelcome back to the Dear Gabby advice column. Spring cannot spring early enough to suit me this year! I’m not going outside again until the temperature is above my age. That may take a while. My cartoon idol, Maxine, explains it best. Her ‘March Madness’ fits perfectly between her ‘February Fits’ and her ‘April Agitation.’ Enter Saint Patrick’s Day. Just because the beer is green doesn’t mean it’s good for you (and not everyone can be Irish). Someone has to drive. Wishing you blessings on March 29th. Good Friday is a day of hope where we look forward to a brighter tomorrow. Send me your questions by clicking on Dear Gabby at www.PostcardsLive.com/share.
DEAR GABBY
There is a quote about one door closing and another door opening. That doesn’t seem to be working for me.
DEAR SLAMMING
I’ve always thought that, when one door closes and another door opens, you are probably in prison. However, according to 5 minutes of exhaustive research on Google, that quote has been credited to Fernando de Rojas (c. 1500ish), Helen Keller, and Alexander Graham Bell (most common). In its entirety, the quote is “When one door closes, another opens; but we often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door that we do not see the one which has opened for us.” Start living by this unaccredited quote: “It’s okay to look back to see how far you’ve come, but keep moving forward. If you’re feeling doubtful or discouraged about your progress, remember that none of your efforts have gone to waste. Often, the things we want most in life will come
when we least expect them, and in ways that might surprise us”. One of my husband/hero Dud’s favorite quotes is from the late, great Satchel Paige (professional baseball and Harlem Globetrotter fame). “Don’t look back. Something might be gaining on you.”
GABBY
My wife considers herself to be the chief of the grammar police. I must be the most ignorant human on earth, because I never seem to use the proper words for the proper situations. Help! IMPROPER
You are not responsible for your spouse promoting herself to that exalted position. It’s been done since hieroglyphic times. Imagine: eye before flea except after sea, or never end a sentence with a bird! English is hard, and many words have the same meaning. Be aware of this one, or your wife will really lose it: I apologize and I’m sorry mean the same thing…except at a funeral
GABBYWEAR UNDER HIS KILT?” I asked that same question “for a friend” to a participant in a parade once. His answer? Shoes and socks. And on he marched.
Say hello to Kyle Pitman, proud Cleveland resident and friendly face behind the wrench at Akin Auto Repair. More than your average mechanic, Kyle’s a dedicated family man. He and his wife, Chris, have two adorable children, Elizabeth & Kylie.
Kyle has been with Akin for 5 years and specializes from brakes and suspension to alignment and transmi not just getting top-notch service, you're getting your car is in expert hands.
Kyle's go-to tip? "Always change fluid and filters in major repairs." It's this commitment to proactive m your vehicle running smoothly for miles to come. Kyle has a heart of gold, thriving on helping other customer is truly priceless.
In the heart of Cleveland, Texas, the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce (GCC) stands as a vital link between businesses and the community—in fact, they are all about connecting businesses to the community. At the forefront is Victoria Good, the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, whose journey and dedication have significantly influenced Cleveland’s growth and prosperity. We sat down with Victoria to delve into her role, the Chamber’s impact, and the vibrant team that makes it all possible.
Could you introduce us to the team at the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce and explain your role?
As the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the GCC, my role encompasses overseeing daily operations, ensuring event success, fostering member satisfaction, and maintaining financial health. I am a Cleveland High School graduate, born and raised in Cleveland, Texas. In 2017, while working at CBS Furniture, a family-owned store, and volunteering in the community, I was invited by then COO Jim Carson to join
Learn why, if Victoria is involved, you can expect “Good” things for the community.
the Chamber Board. After serving on the board and a brief stint as the interim COO in 2021, I was offered the permanent position. My husband always says this job was made for me, combining my passions for event planning, social media, photography, and engaging with people. Our Chamber’s unique structure sets us apart and allows me to directly influence our community’s growth and development. I’m supported by Courtney Contreras, our Executive Assistant, who is instrumental in managing our events, finances, and memberships. Together with a dedicated Board of Directors comprised of volunteers deeply involved in various community organizations, we strive to make decisions that benefit our businesses and community at-large.
What inspired you to pursue a career in community development and chamber work, particularly in Cleveland, Texas?
My roots in Cleveland run deep, having been born and raised here, with family members who own local businesses. My passion for community development stems from a personal desire to see my hometown thrive
and prosper.
What sets the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce apart from others, and how do you support local businesses?
I constantly receive feedback praising our Chamber for its exceptional activity and presence, especially for a town our size, confirming we’re on the right path. I participate in a nationwide group of Chamber executives, and it’s clear we stand out in many positive ways, offering unparalleled service and opportunities relative to our scale. Our commitment to prioritizing members and maximizing networking opportunities sets us apart. Both Courtney and I are deeply committed to ensuring our events are enjoyable and foster positive experiences for our members. Despite our growth, Cleveland maintains its small-town charm, mirrored in the Chamber’s familial atmosphere as we network and collaborate closely. The support and warmth our members extend at our events underscore the close-knit nature of our community, which is central to our Chamber’s uniqueness.
Our proactive involvement and dedication to
our members distinguish us significantly. We prioritize our members, offering numerous networking opportunities that mark us as unique among Chamber executives across the country. We aim to connect, educate, inform, and elevate our business members, encouraging them to see beyond daily operations to the bigger picture of success. With over 30 networking events per year and strategic collaborations with the City of Cleveland and the Cleveland EDC, we’ve enhanced our support, aligning with wider community and economic development objectives.
Can you share how the chamber has impacted the community and any success stories?
Initiatives like Lunch & Learns, focusing on business skills like social media and Canva, have been significant. These sessions are aimed at empowering small businesses with practical skills, reflecting our commitment to community enhancement. Strengthening ties with the City of Cleveland and the Cleveland EDC has been a highlight. Fostering these relationships has been instrumental in positioning the Chamber as a key player in Cleveland’s economic development,
especially amid rapid growth. What upcoming events can the community look forward to?
We’re excited about our upcoming Women’s Brunch & Bubbly in March, celebrating local women’s achievement. We will be honoring two local women who have trusted their journey and made an impact in the Greater Cleveland area. Also, the Rock-N-Ride Bike Ride which is a 28 or 52-mile route through the Sam Houston National Forest. You can enjoy tacos & beer at the finish line with live music from Tomfoolery, an Americana string
band playing your favorite tunes! These events, alongside numerous networking opportunities, keep our Chamber vibrant and engaging.
What advice do you have for small businesses aspiring to impact their community?
Getting involved and volunteering is key.
Understanding the community’s needs and finding what drives you will pave the way for meaningful impact. For me, it’s about enriching the town I love, believing I’m positioned here “for such a time as this.”
Could you share a bit about your personal interests and your family?
Beyond my professional life, I’m involved with my church, enjoy photography, and cherish family trips to the Smoky Mountains, Disney, and cruises. A good shopping run and a long nap are my go-to ways to recharge! My family and I are deeply rooted in Cleveland. My work at the Chamber, my involvement in church, and our leisure activities reflect a life dedicated to community, family, and personal well-being.
For more information about the Greater Cleveland Chamber of Commerce, visit their website clevelandtxchamber.com or email Victoria at vgood@clevelandtxchamber. com. She invites you to join their mission to foster a thriving, interconnected community and business landscape in and around Cleveland, Texas.
When your mom was ‘Rosie the Riveter’, a strong work ethic should come as no surprise.
In many ways, Vickie Croston’s story began before she was born, with the experiences of the strong woman who would one day become her mother. Years into the future, her mom would inspire Vickie to become a pilot, a skydiver, a dental professional, and a home builder. She would pass her incredible work ethic to her daughter, teaching her to work hard and never give up.
Rose Monroe was in her early 20s when an automobile accident claimed the life of her husband, leaving her with two young children. She needed to support her family, but there were few well-paying jobs near her home in south central Kentucky. Furthermore, she had only an eighth-grade education. “She didn’t have the opportunity to go to school,” Vickie says. “She made a good, successful life through grit and hard work.” One day Rose saw a poor family at a bus station. The children’s shoes were so worn out, the tops and soles were held together with canning jar rings. “Mom said, ‘I will never let that happen. I will work three jobs, if I have to, to provide for my kids.’”
During the early part of America’s involvement in World War II, Rose heard there were good jobs available in Ypsilanti, Michigan. She soon got a job making B-24 bombers at the Willow Run Aircraft Factory. Rose worked as a riveter on an innovative assembly line that Henry Ford’s son Edsel designed to manufacture aircraft (after World War II, it became an automobile factory). During the week, Rose lived in the Quonset hut barracks at the Willow Run Airport; her two children were in the care of a co-worker’s family.
born to the couple in 1954. Rose still wanted to learn to fly; although she was busy with the family’s construction business, she finally became a pilot in the early 1970s.
Vickie was one of three passengers on an illfated flight in 1978 that her mother piloted. A child of a family friend was sitting in the front seat and pressed the button that controlled the flaps. It was like putting on the brakes while the plane was trying to accelerate, Vickie explains, and it caused the plane to stall and crash. Two of the passengers were unhurt, but Vickie sustained a broken nose
anyone tell me that?” she says.
One day, Vickie accompanied her thenhusband, a skydiver, to a parachute drop zone in Kentucky. “At the drop zone, I was watching all these people packing their parachutes and having so much fun,” she says. “Then they would do it again. I thought, ‘You know, if it was that scary, they wouldn’t be having that much fun.’” So, Vickie decided to go on a tandem jump with an experienced skydiver. “I was hooked,” she says. “I knew I would be doing this again.”
Vickie ultimately became a skydiving instructor and a professional skydiver, often performing at airshows. During the week, she was a dental hygienist; on the weekends, she was a skydiving performer, jumpmaster, and instructor. “I don’t ever remember taking a ‘sick’ day off to go skydiving,” she says, “but I wanted to!”
One day, the well-known actor Walter Pidgeon came to the factory to make an advertising film for a war bond campaign. The film would later be shown between feature movies at theaters across America. The song “Rosie the Riveter” was popular, and the actor wanted to include someone from the factory to be in the film. “Mom’s foreman told Walter Pidgeon, ‘I have a lady named Rose who is a riveter and fits that song.’ She got a part in the film,” Vickie says. As the human face of Rosie the Riveter, Rose was in the limelight. She didn’t seek publicity, Vickie says, but she was willing to tell her story.
After seeing female pilots transport many B-24s from her factory, Rose wanted to join the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP), but was disqualified for the dangerous job because she was a widow with children. After the war, she held a variety of jobs to support her children: she went to cosmetology school, drove a school bus, and drove a taxi. She eventually remarried, and Vickie was
and facial lacerations. The pilot, Rose, was seriously injured. Her vision in one eye was badly impaired, and she lost one kidney. The accident, however, did not deter Rose. She was no longer able to pilot an aircraft, but continued to fly as a passenger.
We can do it!
Meanwhile, Vickie was mapping out her own place in the world. She had always been fascinated with rocks, so she planned to become a geologist. Somewhere along the way, however, she remembered the dental work she had done while she was in high school, and she changed her mind. “I am good at working with my hands, and I like science,” she says. “Dentistry is good for those two traits I was born with.” So, Vickie earned a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at the University of Louisville, gaining a good educational background for a career that has served her well, even now in semi-retirement. “I like helping people, and I approach things differently than a lot of hygienists,” she says. She encourages people to take better care of their teeth at home and tells patients, “the why behind the what.” Patients often ask her, “Why didn’t
After spending so much time jumping out of airplanes, it seemed natural to become a pilot, too; in 2002, Vickie earned her own pilot certificate. She was never interested in flying for the airlines, but considered becoming a corporate pilot. She finally decided to continue working as a dental hygienist and fly as a hobby. She and her husband Merwyn owned three different airplanes over 20 years, which they often flew to other states to visit family. Although it was expensive to own the planes, Vickie says, there were many benefits. Instead of driving to her home state of Indiana in 16 hours, she could fly it in six. She didn’t have to go through security and didn’t have to take her shoes off; she could take her own food on the plane, as well as guns and dogs. They also could leave when they wanted to.
Although flying isn’t Vickie’s career, it is her passion. She belongs to many charitable aviation groups, such as Angel Flight, which provides medical patient transport; Challenge Air, which hosts special needs youth flying events; and Pilots N Paws, which flies animals to foster families. She is also a member of the Experimental Aircraft Association, Women in Aviation International, and the Ninety-Nines—founded by 99 female pilots, including Amelia Earhart, in 1929. She also strives to improve air safety through her work with the Federal Aviation Administration as a FAASTeam volunteer safety representative.
Vickie doesn’t like the heat and humidity here, but she does appreciate Texas’ commitment to flying. “Texas is a very pro-aviation state,” she says, “and Houston is huge. There are a lot of airports and a lot of flying!” Flying,
Vickie knows, is inherently dangerous, but she chooses to persevere. “You live with the danger,” she says. “I am not going to live my life in fear. If that were the case, I would never leave the house.”
When Vickie says “house,” she really means her log home. After building a small log cabin, she and Merwyn had a larger log home built, but did much of the work themselves. Vickie has always felt at home around tools, as she and her siblings worked alongside their parents in the family construction business. The family worked hard, but played hard when they were done, which is a lesson that Vickie learned well.
Although Vickie didn’t follow her mother’s career path step for step, she—like all American women—owes much gratitude to Rosie the Riveter. Vickie just knew the real Rosie better than most.
For rusty joints, try a little elbow grease.
Small minds and big mouths have a way of hooking up.
The only thing worse than a lawn mower that won’t start is one that will.
When you’re green, you grow. When you think you are ripe, you get rotten.
The only difference between a rut and a grave is the depth. ~ Kristy Vienne
Said to a friend who got cold feet an hour before the wedding, “When you’re on a horse galloping off a cliff, it’s too late to yell, ‘Whoa’!”
Courtship is dancing in the moonlight. Marriage is washing socks.
Publisher Karen Altom and her Granddaddy J.C. Farris
As I grow older, more and more often I find myself saying, “Like my Granddaddy used to say…” In an effort to keep some of these old sayings alive, we are sharing them here. Please feel free to share yours with us!
suc·ces·sion : “…the action or process of acquiring ownership, control, and responsibility of, a title, office, property, etc…”
For our families, it means who is left behind and how will they manage any assets that may pass to them.
• Proper documents have been put into place. The wills, power of attorney, medical power of attorney and other things like proper beneficiaries have been named and or updated to current date. All these items can cause lots of issues for the next generation if not done correctly and left for the next generation.
• Are financial institutions and other entities up to date on how they should transfer assets?
• Property deeds are in good order?
• Debt is under control, and good records of the same?
• And maybe, just as important, current advisors like Attorneys, CPA’s, Financial Advisors, bank officers, medical professionals, and others…. Have met adult children or at least understand your circumstances so they can lend a hand to the next generation?
For our industry or our business, it means who runs the business and serves our clients, which personally also includes our own families and spouses.
How can our clients be assured continuity of service by our business so that their needs continue to be met?
For Global Financial Partners, there has been a very solid succession plan in place since 2020. Our founder, Brian Smith, CFP®, made Bryan Masten, CFP®, a full partner in that year. Now, beginning in 2023 and forward, Riley Smith, CFP®, has become a full partner as well.
No one is retiring, therefore, lots of years to easily transition the many years of relationships that began when we were founded in 1986… 38 years ago.
Call us. Come see us. We’ve been here. We’ll be here. For a very long time. Still serving this community, as well as clients all over Texas and 20 other states in this great country we are proud to call home. So many thanks to all!
The time to install a standby generator is before, not after, the power fails.
“We are the solution to backup power.”
Power outages are annoying and inconvenient, but also life-threatening for those who depend on medical equipment requiring electricity. They need a standby generator that kicks in automatically to connect to an existing LP or natural gas supply if they are on oxygen or dialysis. Diabetics’ insulin and breastmilk for infants must be kept refrigerated. In addition, many people now work from home and rely on the internet. Being without electricity for several days could be detrimental in all these scenarios.
Both Dustin Sorensen and his father Jerry worked previously for companies in the Houston area that offered several brands of standby generators. They were impressed that about 90 percent of customers chose Generac rather than other brands.
Jerry had thirteen years of experience of dealing with generators, and Dustin had eight. “We always dreamed of owning our own business,” says Dustin. “Jerry and Dustin have a great relationship and have worked side by side for 15-plus years. They have always liked working together,” said Dustin’s mother Shannon.
The ice storm and the power grid failure of 2021 became the catalyst for starting the business. In March of 2022, Texas Generator Solutions, an authorized Generac dealer, opened for business in Montgomery County. Dustin takes pride in his Texas roots. “I grew up in Montgomery and want to reinvest in it.”
Texas Generator Solutions is a family-owned and family-operated enterprise. Dustin Sorensen takes care of operations; his father Jerry takes care of sales. Dustin’s sister, Krystal Baker, is the office manager. April Bond, Dustin’s fiancé, is a big part of the company’s development, because she has experience in business as an escrow officer and deals with the public.
“A large percentage of our business is referral-based,” notes Shannon. “That’s when you know you’re doing something right.”
“Teamwork makes the dream work,” Dustin stressed. “We started business with one employee. Our team has grown to twelve, and we are so proud of them. All of them are certified and trained individuals. The guys out on the floor are the reason we are successful. It’s their hard work that gets our referral business. Our business has increased 100 percent because of the trust our customers have in us.”
“We don’t think of the people who work with us as employees; we consider them family,” Krystal said.
According to Dustin, Garry Walker has been an integral part of the company’s success. “Garry is a master electrician. He’s been with us since day one and has assisted in
our technicians’ development.”
Garry and Will are the electrical team. The plumbing team members are Geddy, Richard, and Jorge; the pad team are Robert, Ociel, and Kevin. The Service team members are Danny, Will, and Garry.
According to Dustin, “Teamwork has allowed the company to become a Premier Authorized Generac dealer in only two years. That was our five-year goal; we met it in two.” That’s thanks to the work ethic of everyone on the team. “It takes all of us to install a
generator,” Krystal said.
“Our goal is not to become the biggest generator sales business. Our goal is to provide the best service to Montgomery County and surrounding areas,” Jerry Sorensen said. “Our service includes scheduled maintenance programs, warranty, assistance, and emergency service. We also maintain large inventories of Generac parts, components, and accessories for the builtin-the-USA generator (which has a 5-year limited warranty).”
“We don’t just come in and install the generator and leave. We have a sustainable service department that uses authorized parts and technicians. If you have done business with us,” Jerry said, “you are part of the Texas Generator family. Communication is the key. Our customers are not just numbers.”
Dustin’s philosophy is simple. “Don’t chase the money; chase the dream.”
Satisfied customers include Dana Armstrong in the Kingwood area, who bought a generator from Texas Generator Solutions in 2022. According to Dana, “It was a pleasant experience. They have given us great service. They delivered on time and kept me aware of when they were coming and what they were doing. They helped me complete the forms for financing. They serviced our unit in 2023. We’ve already referred several people to them.”
Helen Burge purchased a Generac from the company because she and her sister deal with several medical issues that make them dependent on equipment that is powered by electricity. “My sister lives with me, and she has problems with her leg. Dustin went
above and beyond. He understood what I was going through. Dustin answered all my questions, and his guys did a wonderful job.”
Texas Generator Solutions offers a free, noobligation quote without high-pressure sales tactics. Jerry sizes up the house, finds the best solution for a generator, finds the best location for the generator, and conducts a load calculation. Then he talks with the homeowners about the best generator for them and how to pay for it. Zero percent interest is available for 18-month loans, and
with other available loans, customers can finance for up to 11 years.
The time to install a stand-by generator is before, not after the power fails. As Dustin says, “There’s no such thing as being too early.”
For more information, visit texasgensolutions.com.
Copycat Chili’s Queso Dip
Ingredients
16 oz processed cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 cup whole milk
1 (15 oz) can no-bean chili
1 Tbs fresh lime juice
1 1/2 tsp chili powder
1 1/2 tsp paprika
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp kosher salt
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro pkg yellow or white corn tortilla chips
Directions
Step 1: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add cheese and milk; cook, stirring often, until smooth, about 4 minutes.
Step 2: Stir in chili, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and cayenne. Cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Mix together onion and cilantro in a small bowl.
Step 4: Top queso with cilantro-onion mixture and serve with tortilla chips.
Thru 2
9
Montgomery
Walden Follies waldenfollies40.com
Thru 17
Houston
Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo rodeohouston.com
1 Conroe
“The Cash and Cline Show” crightontheatre.org
6
Huntsville
“The SpongeBob Musical” owenthetre.com
“Bach, Beethoven, and Barbecue”: Benefit Gala Dinner, Concert, & After-Party crightontheatre.org
Huntsville
Master Gardeners’ Spring Plant Sale
facebook.com/walkercounty mastergardeners/
Willis
Movie Night crbcwillistx.org
Huntsville
Chicago Tribute: Authority Texas oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org
13-30
Houston
“Kingdom Undone” adplayers.org
14-23
Madisonville
Madison County Fair & Rodeo mcfa.net
14-31
Round Top
Spring Antiques Show
Cleveland
Cleveland
2nd Annual Women’s Brunch & Bubbly
clevelandtxchamber.com
22-23
Huntsville
Herb Festival at the Wynne Home texasthymeunit.org 23
Huntsville
Pitch, Hit, & Run huntsvilletx.gov
Piano Man: The Billy Joel Experience oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org
Huntsville
Pure Prairie League oldtowntheatre-huntsville.org 29-Apr
Huntsville
19-23
Huntsville
Walker County Fair and Rodeo walkercountyfair.com
20-23
Huntsville
Conroe
Easter Worship Service
21-24
Montgomery
Willis
Sunrise Easter Worship Service crbcwillistx.org
by Wes Altom
I saw a meme the other day that really resonated. It said, “I’ll never forget how my father told me, ‘When God put a calling on your life, He already factored in your stupidity.’ That’s the most reassuring thing I’ve ever heard.”
This is something that could be said by a lot of fathers—and, assuredly—an accurate sentiment from the Father of us all. Whether ignorance, stubbornness, pride, fear—or just plain gravity and inertia that work to keep us held down and not moving forward—the obstacles before us are much less powerful than the power of God, who came to live in us and through us. So don’t let “stupid is” keep you from working toward “stupid does.”
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:8-10
