"Take Heart for I have overcome the world"

Life is like a roller coaster. Up, down, and all around. It can be fun, kinda scary, and full of uncertainties.

We have had two South Putnam students die this summer. Both unexpected and sudden. Tyler Adams was going to be a Junior & Haley Bain would've been a sophomore next year. It's times like these when you realize just how precious life is, how life throws you a curve you didn't see coming, and just how fast time goes.

I had never been to a teenager's viewing before. And I'll admit, it was tough. Seeing so many people cry and devasted isn't fun. But even in the midst of sadness, we can learn from the life Haley led.

I picked up the card telling about Haley as I entered the church. It has a beautiful picture of Haley on the front, an adorable picture of her as a young child on the inside, and listed some information about Haley. But after I got back home, I noticed something else in the card, a quote by Haley.

It says, "My future might be full of uncertainties, but I am ready to face it head on. I am so excited to see what God has in store for me. I want to go through life forgiving, forgetting, loving the people around me, and just being happy."

We may feel that Haley's life was cut short, but she led an awesome life that we can learn from. So many times we take advantage of life, people, and situations. We may say, "I'll call them tomorrow...I'll apoplogize later....I'll start reading my bible again next week....I'll go back to church soon....etc."

Life is not going to always be easy, but we have a God that is all powerful, loving, caring, awesome, compassionate, and great! He brings joy, comfort, peace, happiness, love, vision, strength, and so much more than you ever thought could be possible.

I love John 16:33, and I feel it's a good reminder for everyone. It says, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

If God is for us, who can be against us? We may have the occasional curve ball, or speed bump. But TAKE HEART! For God has overcome the world!

be blessed!

<3