November 2012 Metro Christian Living by Mississippi Christian Living

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NOVEMBER 2012

Thanksgiving Memories Making a Political Difference Understanding Why You Worry

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contents NOVEMBER 2012 columns 11 The Way I See It The Best of My Love

13 Modern Motherhood Eating My Words

16 All in the Family Understanding Why You Worry

Burnt Bridges 200 Million Flowers

28 Living My Call Q & A with Dr. Dion F. Porter

38 Salt & Light Boy Scout Troop 18 Character, Heritage, and Tradition

40 HomeWorks

Dinnertime Devotionals

41 Single Still, Single Again Learning from My Dog Mabel

42 Let’s Talk It Over

Enjoying This Very Moment

43 Legal Advice How Can I Give to My Children, but Keep Control?

44 This is My Story Blind, but Now I See

52 Pastor’s Perspective Turmoil in the Middle East A Christian Perspective

departments 14 Welcome Home

Choosing the Right Chandelier for the Space

22 Healthy Living A Diet to Ensure Energy

30 Food For Thought Thanksgiving Memories

46 Fresh Finds 51 Thanksgiving Reflections From the MCL Staff

54 Sports Victories

Sports Victories in the Metro Jackson Academy’s David Sykes

56 Money Matters

Don’t Let the “Bait Fish” Affect Your Portfolio

58 Rave Reviews

What’s Coming Next Month? Ted DiBiase From Million Dollar Champion to Family Man

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6 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Editor: Marilyn Tinnin marilyn@metrochristianliving.com Administrative Assistant: Carol Rodgers carol@metrochristianliving.com

Art Direction/Graphic Design Sandra K. Goff

26 Education Connection

President of St. Dominic Health Services

Publisher: MHS Publications, Inc., Member, M.I.P.A.

20 Lagniappe 25 Outside In

Claude Harbarger

Volume 7, Number 5

Associate Editor: Suzanne Tanner

A Little Thanksgiving Thought

18 In the News

One View on Making a Political Difference

features

metro

Books, Movies, and Music

in every issue 8 60 62 62

Editor’s Letter Event Calendar Quips & Quotes Ad Directory

Sales Marilyn Tinnin, Kimberly Stephens, Suzanne Tanner Contributing Writers Lydia Bolen, Christian Carrico, Dr. John L. Cox, Shawn Dean, Cathy Haynie, William B. Howell, Amy Ingram, Frances Johnson, Susan Marquez, Dr. Elias Medeiros, Ron Mumbower, Ph.d., L.M.F.T., Nancy New, Robin O’Bryan, Tammy Thomas, Charles Tinnin, Dr. Bill Ury, Martin E. Willoughby, Jr., Robert Wilson Cover Photography Stegall Imagery Distribution Assistants Laura Kidder, Randy Fortenberry, Carol Rodgers, Andrea Sabillion, Rachel Schulte, Jerri Strickland, Priscilla Sullivan, Tim Waldon, Bob Whatley

Metro Christian Living 573 Highway 51 North, Suite C Ridgeland, MS 39157 Phone 601-790-9076 • Fax 601-790-9078 www.metrochristianliving.com Metro Christian Living is committed to encouraging individuals in their daily lives by presenting the faith stories of others and by providing information that will point every person, at every stage of life, to a deeper, authentic, personal, and life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. Views expressed in Metro Christian Living do not necessarily represent those of the publisher. Every effort has been made by the Metro Christian Living staff to insure accuracy of the publication contents. However, we do not guarantee the accuracy of all information nor the absence of errors and omissions; hence, no responsibility can be or is assumed. All Rights Reserved. Copyright 2012 by Metro Christian Living, Inc. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version, copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. Used by permission of International Bible Society.

Metro Christian Living is published monthly and is available at high traffic locations throughout the metropolitan area. Copies are also available by subscription, $29 for one year. Single issues available for $3 an issue. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to Metro Christian Living, 573 Highway 51 North, Suite C, Ridgeland, MS 39157.

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CHRISTIAN LEADERS OF THE FUTURE is an opportunity for high-school seniors to share their story of faith and leadership. The top finalists are selected by a panel of judges from around the metro area. They will receive a recognition plaque, gifts, and will be featured on the cover of the March 2013 edition of Metro Christian Living. The most outstanding student will receive a scholarship for the college of their choice. Applications are available at: www. metrochristianliving.com or through your school counselor or youth pastor.

APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED BY DECEMBER 7, 2012 For More Information contact Metro Christian Living 601-790-9076 or Carol@metrochristianliving.com

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➺editor’s letter Solid and Simple—Things that Last O may this bounteous God through all our life be near us, With ever joyful hearts and blessed peace to cheer us; And keep us in His grace, and guide us when perplexed; And free us from all ills, in this world and the next! – From “Now Thank We All Our God”Lyrics by Martin Rinkart in 1636

love that hymn,“Now Thank We All Our God.” It brings back memories of Thanksgivings past when my hometown held community Thanksgiving services and when my elementary school always—and I mean always—had a Thanksgiving play. Students from several grades dressed as Pilgrims and Indians and sang the timeless words of this old hymn. We live in a different day. I wonder if my grandchildren are taught about Thanksgiving in the same way. I learned in those grade school days to love my country, to cherish our independence, and to appreciate our dependence on the God who had so lavished His blessing on us. All of those memories undergird my thoughts on Thanksgiving decades later. My husband sells French antiques, handwoven, one-of-a-kind oriental rugs, and amazing artifacts for people’s homes. The first time I went with him on a buying trip I trooped through acres of old things in awe of my surroundings. The romantic in me wandered through rows of chests, tables, chairs and armoires wondering about the previous owners—the families who had sat around the tables, opened the cupboard doors, and stored their worldly goods inside the armoires and buffets. “If walls could talk,” I mused. But the word that kept coming back to me again and again was this: authentic. These were not just things that looked pretty—they were well-made, works of art that had survived generations, history, wars, upheaval of every sort. And yet, these beautiful, though sometimes scarred things, had come through every challenge. They did not just survive the crazy world around them. They endured with a certain look of seasoned beauty—and what is more, they increased in value! I have spent the last few days really thinking about that fact, and I find great comfort in the lesson. I also feel a tremendous sense of gratitude in this season of the year and in this season of life that such a thing is possible. Authenticity never goes out of style. Do you love that thought as much as I do? I invite you to think “enduring values” as you read this month’s magazine. St. Dominic Health Services is near and dear to my heart as they were the very first advertiser who took a chance on this mid-life maven who decided to start a magazine with just an idea and absolutely no credentials. I love that when the Dominican Sisters determined that it was time to pass the torch to lay leadership they discarded denominational politics and focused on the mission of the hospital. It just so happens that their choice of a new leader was not a Catholic at all. Now, that, dear readers is the church as it should be. That is the gospel—and that is Jesus. The values at St. Dominic, however—well, they are unscathed by the changes— because you see, they are authentic. We feature the Boy Scouts in our Salt and Light section this month. Troop 18 has been around since the 1920s, and though the leadership and the Scouts themselves have changed a lot in those years, the mission and the values and the core purpose remains the same. Why is that? Why have Boy Scouts who have not altered their mission or their values in their 102-year history remained “relevant?” Could it be that there are just some values that meet a need, that fill a hole inside of us, and that something connects on an inexplicable soul level that is meaningful? It speaks to us in a place that only God’s voice can penetrate. Maybe? As always, our contributing writers have put their heart into the offerings here. I honestly believe they have given something for everyone. Lydia’s recipes are such that even I think I might be able to pull off a Martha Stewart moment. Amy Ingram in “Single Still, Single Again,” has written a piece that will resonate with every “single” out there. Of course, I love that God uses her puppy, Mabel, to teach her lessons. Martin Willoughby’s thoughts on unconditional love will have you thinking twice before you throw the word “love” around to describe everything from pizza to your newborn with 10 fingers and 10 toes! I could go on and on, but I think I have exceeded my allotted word count. Oops—again. So many wishes for a meaningful and reflective Thanksgiving—and prayers that God draws you close to Him to build your own authenticity and conform you a little more to His beautiful and enduring image. Happy days in the coming season to you and yours! Y

I Then we your ❝ people, the sheep of your pasture, will praise you forever; from generation to generation we will recount your praise.

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– Psalm 79:13

8 OCTOBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Marilyn H. Tinnin, Publisher and Editor marilyn@metrochristianliving.com

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the way i see it

by MARTIN E. WILLOUGHBY, JR.

The Best of My Love ccasionally, governmental officials will declare a moratorium on an activity.

Examples include the moratorium on new deep water drilling that occurred after the BP oil spill or moratoriums on the death penalty that have occurred in certain states. I have been thinking about having my own personal moratorium on using the word “love.” Because the word “love” is so overused, I am afraid it has lost all meaning. Sometimes the English language is just not descriptive enough. When I find myself using the same word to describe the way I feel about my wife and kids that I do a Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich, there is a problem. Granted their sandwiches are good, but not that good! Using the same word to describe my favorite football team as I do God just seems out of whack. As the sports commentators would say, “Come on man!” In our culture, we tend to say “I Love You,” but what it really often means is that, “I love you until someone better comes along, I get tired of you, it becomes too hard, etc.” I believe that our lack of understanding of the true nature of God’s unconditional love is why it is such a challenge for us in living out our faith. Scripture tells us that the two

Using the same word to describe my favorite football team as I do God just seems out of whack. greatest commandments are to love God and love our neighbor (Matthew 22:37-39). I don’t believe that we can truly love God and love people unless we really understand the depths of God’s love for us. The truths of the Christian faith can become so familiar that they lose their real impact. When we stop and really think about truths like: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16) or “but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

(Romans 5:8), then the real magnitude of God’s love starts to sink in. It gets even more personal than that. God knows us before we are even born (Psalm 139:13). He knows the hairs on our head (Luke 12:7), and He knows our needs (Matthew 6:32). However, if I don’t really believe that I am in need of God’s personal and intimate love, then I miss out experiencing his tremendous grace in my life. I find that some people either think they are “good enough” and don’t really need God, or they have the opposite feeling that they are unworthy of God’s love and so they reject it. I have found that people who really appreciate their own condition as a sinner, but freely accept God’s love are the same ones who overflow with real love for others. They understand that “love” is about a generous, intentional, and sacrificial caring about others. They are so grateful for the love that they have received that they are eager to share it with others. I know I tend to forget about how truly incredible God’s love for me is. The tyranny of the urgent and my own problems tend to distract me from this reality. However, I notice when I spend time at the “feet of the Father” and truly grasp his love, then my heart changes for others. I want to truly respect this idea of what real “love” looks like. For now, I will have to think about my vocabulary a little more and come up with a new way to describe how I feel about those chicken sandwiches!

Martin E. Willoughby, Jr,. is Chief Operating Officer of Butler Snow Advisory Services, LLC located in Ridgeland. He and his wife, Nicki, have two children, Ally and Trey, and live in Madison. metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 11

12 NOVEMBER 2012 â?&#x2DC; Metro Christian Living

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modern motherhood by ROBIN O’BRYANT

Eating My Words can remember crying in the back of my mom’s maroon and cream Dodge Ram van, “When I have kids I’m NEVER going to say, ‘Because I said so!’”

Oh, the injustices I suffered in that van. Being forced to sit in the back seat. Being forced to sit beside my brother. Being forced to get out of the car at school. When I was a kid, I knew for sure there were a few phrases I would never say to my kids: “Finish that. There are starving children in Africa.” “I don’t care who made that mess I’m telling YOU to clean it up.” “If I have to pull this car over...!” Oh I had a plan. I would reason with my children. I would explain to them that they needed to eat their dinner to be healthy and strong. They were part of a family and must contribute to housework because we were all members of the same team and I would never ever have to threaten them. No, we would be so close. I would be so understanding. In one of those curveballs that life likes to throw, I’ve heard some of the things that have come out of my mouth lately, and I’ve realized I’m saying things I never expected to have to say to my children. Here are a few of my favorites: “If you hadn’t licked my armpit, you wouldn’t have deodorant in your mouth.” “No panties, no dinner.” “No hissing at the table.” “Don’t lick the TV screen.” “Why are there 12 toothbrushes in y’all’s bathroom? There are only three of you.” “I wonder how much I could get for you on Craigslist.” “I don’t care if your sister begged you to draw a butterfly on her face—you know better.” “You can’t jump on the trampoline topless. Just go ahead and write that down somewhere—it’s going to apply for the rest of your life.” “Just because it says the marker is ‘Washable’ does NOT mean you

were supposed to color the entire bottom of the tub blue.” “Because I said so.” And my parents score another point. Y Robin O’Bryant is mother to three daughters, wife to one husband, and debut author of Ketchup Is A Vegetable And Other Lies Moms Tell Themselves. She shares the drama and hilarity of motherhood in her syndicated family humor column, “Robin’s Chicks” and on her blog by the same name (www.robinschicks.com).

2081 Main Street, Madison, MS 39110

(601) 856-3229 LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 13

➺welcome home by CHARLES TINNIN

Choosing the Right Chandelier for the Space handeliers in the home are often taken for granted as little more than a functional light source provider, but they can change the look and feel of a room instantly.

Chandeliers in movies have added drama and tension as they dominated Gringots Bank in Harry Potter or completely take over the action as in Phantom of the Opera’s tragic scene. The Marx Brothers have swung on chandeliers and James Bond has hidden listening devices in them in his ongoing battles against the enemies of the free world. Chances are that won’t happen to your chandelier, so what are the practical guidelines for choosing a chandelier for your home? The first question is whether you are looking for task lighting or for ambient lighting. Is there a particular work or hobby activity which requires an area of intense light or is general, broad area lighting preferred? If certain spots in the room will need more light, a lamp or sconces can be added. Will the chandelier be a focal point of the room or simply a source of light? “Chandelier” in French literally means “candle holder,”

14 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

denoting grace, but the French people themselves refer to ceiling lighting with the word “lustre,” referring to the practical aspect. Generally the dining room and the foyer will feature the more formal chandeliers, with a more casual look in the rooms where the family spends more time. The focus here is for the chandelier to compliment the other design elements of the room and not fight with them. An antler chandelier doesn’t compliment formal furniture, while a two-

tiered elegant chandelier works poorly with industrial chic. The general rule on size is to add the length and the width of the room with the sum being the diameter of the chandelier. For instance, a 12’ x 18’ room works out to a 30inch diameter chandelier. Even this rule has exceptions though, as some chandeliers are dense and beefy, and some are open and airy. In an open room, the bottom of the chandelier should be at least seven feet above the floor, but they are usually hung with the candles at eye level over a dining room table for added effect. When hanging a chandelier over a dining table, the rule is the chandelier diameter should be slightly less than the width of the table. Rectangular or oval chandeliers will fit the area well over long narrow furniture like a dining table or kitchen island. Lanterns are very popular and functional in kitchens and breakfast rooms. Y Charles Tinnin is owner of Tinnin Imports Rug & Home on Lakeland Drive. View his website at www.tinninimports.com

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metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 15

➺all in the family by DR. JOHN L. COX

Understanding Why You Worry It is a dark and stormy night. You are having trouble sleeping. Playing across the High Definition Big Screen of your mind are all the crummy things that might happen in your life: Your daughter is out with some guy—they still aren’t home—is she okay? The balloon payment of your loan is due this spring—will you have the cash available to pay it off? You disagreed with the boss (to his face) yesterday at work—is he going to hold it against you? And why did you say THAT at that party last night! What where you thinking? If any of this sounds familiar— Congratulations! You are a Worrier. Worrying is not some kind of weird psychopathology, so don’t worry. (Ha! Get it?) It is simply a wacky method lots of us use to deal with the ever-present helplessness and

16 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

vulnerability in our lives. In case you haven’t noticed it yet, you don’t control everything in your life. (I know your spouse acts like they do, but they are wrong.). And not being able to control things is scary. The stock market is unpredictable; tsunamis are unpredictable; and goodness knows our kids are unpredictable. Life is scary and vulnerable! Worriers tend to manage the helplessness and vulnerability of their circumstances by “ruminating” about them, turning it over and over in their heads, thinking about all the ways they could go horribly wrong. Sounds like a blast, right? Well whatever it is, Worriers can’t

seem to get enough of it. We learn some of this in childhood. When a child experiences something yucky or hurtful, they begin to guard against it happening in the future by ANTICIPATING. Kids say to their selves, “If nasty stuff happened yesterday, it might happen again today—so I’m going to be ready this time and expect it.” This is an ironic way in which we make ourselves feel “safer” by anticipating NOT being safe. I often call this kind of thinking “What if Bad” and it is how we learn to worry—by trying to anticipate all the bad things. Adult worry is simply the continued

practice of anticipating bad things so that we will be prepared for them. I call it the “Knock on Wood” phenomenon. Think about that feeling you have when you carelessly declare, “I haven’t gotten the flu in years!” or “I’ve never been audited by the IRS!!” You know that immediate sense of danger? “What am I thinking? I need to knock on wood!!” You are feeling that fear of “believing good” that makes Worriers want to anticipate bad things. If you think about it, worry is actually a subtle form of control: “If I expect bad things—I can handle them.” But as all Worriers know, it usually sort of backfires. Think about it. Within the Worrier plan, we try to feel safe, by predicting how unsafe we are. (I didn’t say it was smart—it just feels safer to Worriers!) I had a client once who was a huge Ole Miss fan. (Incidentally, on weeks after the Rebels lost a big game, we would have very difficult sessions—I know some of you can imagine.) In anticipation of one important game, he realized that he literally would not be able to stand it if the Rebels lost. So he hit upon an idea. He would bet big money AGAINST the Rebels. That way, if they won, he would be delighted; if they lost, he would at least make a tidy sum of Sorrow Compensation Cash!

This is how Worriers live their lives. Literally “hedging their bets” in anticipation of bad things. It feels safer to Worriers to continually scan the horizons of their lives, looking for all the ways that everything might go wrong. Consequently, they tend to spend their lives constantly warning their kids about

Worriers live painful lives filled with all the tragedies that never happen. various dangers and taking out more insurance—and that is a high cost. Worriers live painful lives filled with all the tragedies THAT NEVER HAPPEN!! As Proverbs says, they “…flee, though no one pursues.” So, I always ask my worrying clients, “What would you feel if you anticipated a “What if Good?” The consistent (and correct) answer is “Very, very vulnerable.” To a Worrier, living

with a “What if Good” would mean dropping their shields and laying down their only defense against bad stuff. Then if the bad stuff happens, they’ll be caught off guard!! But, the Worriers who are willing to take this risk learn something wonderful. Once they start paying attention to what actually happens, instead of living in the imaginary world of what might happen, they begin to actually enjoy their lives (imagine that). They actually start to learn that they can still be safe, even if they aren’t constantly looking over their shoulder for danger. They learn that, though life can really stink, it rarely stinks as often as they think it will, and when bad things DO happen—they are strong enough to handle them. So, Worriers, try “risking” letting go of the security of “What if Bad” and begin learning that, though you cannot control your world, it might still be good—sometimes. Knock on wood! Y Dr John L. Cox is a clinical psychologist in practice here in Jackson. He works with adults, marriages and children. You can contact him at 601-352-7398. Visit the webpage for Dr. Cox’s upcoming book at www.thebigpictureparent.com

www.christmasonice.com

November 17 - January 6 401 Baptist Drive, Madison, Mississippi | 601.500.5970

metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 17

➺in the news by DR. BILL URY

One View on Making a

POLITICAL DIFFERENCE he debate about Christian involvement in government is as old as we are as a faith. Two thousand years of disagreement have left us with about as many different opinions. While I respect the

perspectives that say we ought not to get involved in the “world” or that we ought to leave everything to a sovereign God since the world and its kingdoms are fallen, I disagree with them—on two fronts.

The Power of the One Incarnate Christ If a believer takes seriously the fact that God became a man in order to redeem the world, the only way to bring human need into actual contact with the nature of God was for God to become a man. Christians are to live life expressing the fact that Christ is not a man who became a god but the only begotten Son of God, a divine man. His coming to be like us is God’s promise of love, even for the most rebellious and damaged by sin. If he had to cross the barriers of geography, economy, language, and government to come to us, how is it that our purpose could be any different than his? His nature—his life— is what fills our souls and, it is a missionary nature. One creative way to engage the world is to participate, not adulate, in one form of incarnating His love and wisdom in a constructive way. I think voting is a way of affirming the hope we have in Christ. As Isaiah said, the government is upon His shoulders.

The Power of One in Christ Holiness of heart and life does not necessitate becoming a hermit. In fact, everywhere in the Bible our heroes are exactly the opposite. In the Old Testament we find these examples of cultural involvement and success: • Abraham: businessman, farmer, herder; • Isaac, Jacob: farmers, herders; • Joseph: shepherd, CEO, vice-regent of a country; • Moses: politician, philosopher, shepherd, jurist, administrator, teacher; • Bezalel: craftsman, artisan, architect; • Deborah: judge, warrior; • David: musician, soldier, poet, king; • Nehemiah: assistant, servant; • Daniel: student, administrator, advisor;

God is on the lookout for anyone, anywhere who will follow Him into any context with the absolutely ludicrous, laughable belief that they can make a difference in this chaotic sin-soaked world. I love the fact 18 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

that the first Christians voted and served as policemen and soldiers, but only if they were not required to worship Caesar. They would die for that political distinction. They knew there was only one Lord. They were called the off-scouring of the world, riff-raff, because they would pick up thrown out babies off the garbage piles of the Roman world and would love them as their own. It is one thing to vote another to actually place oneself in the middle of the fray. Think of the single hearts that have stood against the tide and have changed the course of human history in the political sense alone: ■ Paul the Apostle: Roman citizen and Christian evangelist— within 300 years the entire empire was Christianized; ■ Augustine: Theologian and bishop of the Church—saved a culture from total moral demise by his beliefs; ■ King Alfred: Ruler—truly Christianized England; ■ Martin Luther: Reformer—set a trajectory of Western Culture that placed true value on the individual; ■ John Wesley: Anglican Evangelist—probably saved England from the sort of revolution that decimated France; ■ William Wilberforce: Politician—life long battle against the scourge of slavery which was outlawed soon after his death; ■ J.Wascom Pickett: Bishop—helped Gandhi write the constitution for India which included religious freedom; ■ Mother Teresa: Nun—cast a shadow of love across half a century that no tyrant could expunge.

One of the lies of the enemy is that we don’t really matter. The Incarnation destroys that deception. God has cast a vote for you in the flesh. Our actions on a daily basis either verify or defy that truth. If politics is one way to cast a vote for good, for truth, for justice—yes even in this cockeyed world in which you and I live—then I say informed voting is part of our discipleship. But more, if I want to be like Christ, then maybe through one person totally yielded to the Holy Spirit, my vote can be cast not just on a ballot, but on the battlefield of our culture. Y Dr. Bill Ury is a former professor at Wesley Biblical Seminary.

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➺lagniappe by DR. NANCY NEW

Finding HELP for yourself or a loved one shouldn’t be difficult. Let Covenant Caregivers guide you through our 3-STEP PROCESS: 1. Call today at 601-856-5660 and speak to a member of our team. ✜ We’ll gather some basic information from you and schedule a face-to-face visit.

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A Little Thanksgiving Thought

In preparation for this article two primary questions came to mind: Why must we wait until Thanksgiving to be thankful? And, what is the appropriate display of thanks? I found myself consumed with the thought of why do we wait to be thankful and what are we thankful for?

Why not let them know it? Why wait until Thanksgiving? Instead of waiting until everyone is “in the mood to be thankful,” why not start now? Let your loved ones know just how much you appreciate them. While you may assume that the other person already knows, and he or she might, it never hurts to express appreciation. It will make them feel good to know how you feel, especially if you relay those feelings in specifics!

What should being thankful really involve? Is being thankful a display of emotion? Or is it best done in eloquently written word? Or is being thankful simply a private occurrence between one’s self and the Maker? More so, should being thankful be all of the above and more? Thankfulness can certainly be shown in many ways, but we should be mindful of giving thanks daily. With the holiday looming right around the corner, many people begin taking stock of the many things they are thankful for. I inquired with several individuals on their thoughts on showing thanks. They not only shared the importance of showing thanks—but some of their most important reasons for being thankful. Some are material things, but most of us are thankful for the people in our lives. Locke, an 11th grade student, shared: He is thankful for his family—who always supports him—for the wonderful school that he

attends, and that he is grateful to live in such a great country. Mrs. Neely, a teacher at New Summit School, expresses that she is thankful for her God that she serves, for His Son to die on the cross for her, thankful for family, and for New Summit School. Nikki, an 11th grader, is thankful for her parents, to have a roof over her head, and to have caring friends. Brandon, a 9th grade student, is thankful for having a caring aunt and uncle to take him in and loving him. He is also thankful for meeting his brother. As this Thanksgiving approaches and we gather around the table with our own families, be thankful for the blessing of your own family. I am reminded of how thankful I am for the blessing of my own family. Also, that my own children have grown to share the same commitment to ensuring that their children are happy, healthy, loved, and cared for. Also remember all the children who should be sitting around tables of their own in loving homes all across this country, but who are not as fortunate to have the same abundance of family. Give thanks for all of the people who are making a difference in the lives of children, in ways that are big and small. I am thankful each day to be part of a community of people who care and who are committed to creating a better world for all families. I am thankful for those that work hard each day to create brighter futures for our children. Y Dr. Nancy New is Executive Director New Summit School Services, New Learning Resources, Inc. and the Mississippi Community Education Center

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➺healthy living by TAMMY THOMAS

A Diet to Ensure Energy ave trouble getting started in the morning? Feel sluggish in the afternoon? Ready to crash come evening? You’re not alone!

and breathing to increase, making you feel more alert. Too much caffeine can make you feel jittery, interfere with your sleep, and cause dehydration. Besides coffee, caffeine is also found in tea, sodas, energy drinks, herbs, and chocolate. Check with your physician to see how much, if any, caffeine, is recommended for you.

Many people, especially women, are constantly suffering from a lack of energy. Fatigue can be caused by a number of different factors, but for many people, poor nutrition is to blame. Since food is the body’s fuel, how well you’re able to perform during the day may be directly related to what foods you fill up with during meal and snack time. When it comes to energy levels, foods and drinks that play the biggest role are carbohydrates, protein, water, and caffeine. Here’s how to include them in your diet.

Carbs for Energy Your body needs some carbohydrates. Yes, you heard it right—Carbs! A combination of complex and simple carbohydrates is what to aim for to get maximum benefit. Complex carbs are slower to burn, and include foods like whole grains and starchy vegetables (squash, potatoes, carrots, and pumpkin). Whole grains that are high in fiber are what you need for sustained, long-lasting energy. Look for bread that contains at least two to three grams of fiber per slice. For a healthy dose of simple carbs, stick with fresh, whole fruits.

Protein for Stamina While carbohydrates supply energy, protein is responsible for releasing the energy. Protein is also essential for cell growth, the transport of nutrients and hormones through the body,

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healthy muscles, and a properly working immune system. Be sure to eat a source of protein at each meal—whether lean meat, fish, poultry, beans, eggs, soy, nuts, or low-fat dairy.

Water for Refreshment Essential to survival, water is also essential for energy. When you consider that two-thirds of your body is made of water, you’re reminded how important water is to health and wellness. Water helps to control your temperature, helps you digest food, lubricates your organs, and play6s a major role in creating energy molecules. If you’re depleted of water you probably feel depleted of energy. If you’re dehydrated, you’ll feel completely exhausted. Without enough water, your body will work overtime to rehydrate itself instead of producing energy.

Caffeine for Stimulation Caffeine has a powerful effect that can jumpstart your energy level, but excessive caffeine is not recommended for anyone. Caffeine is a stimulant that works by exaggerating the effects of your natural hormones, causing your heart to beat faster

Additional Tips Keep in mind that overeating—no matter what food—may cause sluggishness. Instead of three large meals, try eating several small meals (don’t forget breakfast) throughout the day to give you constant bursts of energy. Too much alcohol or vitamin deficiencies are often to blame for low energy levels. And for women, a feeling of fatigue could be caused by anemia (low iron) at certain times of the month. If you still feel fatigued and lethargic after eating a well-balanced diet, contact a food professional or your physician. Stress, medications, diseases, sleep problems, or lack of exercise may be to blame, and getting these under control will get your energy level back where it belongs. One of the most proven ways to increase your energy levels is to participate in a consistent, challenging exercise program. Y Tammy Thomas is a personal trainer and the owner of MS Fitness Pro, LLC. Contact Tammy at tammy@msfitnesspro.com or call 601.559.5577 to inquire about her boot camps, group training, or personal training. All levels of training available.

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December 6, 7 & 8 5 pm to 8 pm Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, Jackson $1.00 Admission ($5 max per family) Enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas by strolling through a path of twinkling lights while sipping hot apple cider, listening to Christmas carols performed by local choirs and orchestras, and watching the mystery of the nativity enacted live. Experience a “snow shower” of Blisslights™, a new lighting eﬀect unlike ever seen before! Take your photo with Santa, ride the train, mail that allimportant letter to the North Pole, and listen to Christmas stories. This family-friendly event is an enchanting evening for all ages. For more information, visit www.parents-kids.com or call Parents & Kids Magazine at 601-366-0901.

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outside in by SHAWN DEAN

Burnt Bridges ur enemy, the father of lies, is very good at what he does, and is not to be underestimated. He’s had ample time to master his craft—and a powerful feature of that mastery is his ability to plant a seed in our heart that’s fully convincing and bears fruit as proof. At times, no amount of rationale, no matter how solid the apologetics, can convince a man out of his lie. Sometimes, it even appears that prayer is ineffective. This in no way is meant to glorify our enemy, but to lay a foundation of truth that will set a course of freedom. The particular lie I want to deal with in this column has to do with relationship with others, and more specifically, the marriage union. That lie goes something like this, “Your marriage is damaged beyond repair.” Over the past four years, maybe because at my age of 45, I’ve seen the total wreckage of multiple marriages that I believed at one point, to be solid as a rock-—from Pastor to layman. Each time my emotions go from astonishment, to searching for reasons, to disbelief, to concern for my own. And, over many deep conversations, bathed in tears, with people going through a divorce, the same theme reverberates—hopelessness. It starts with hopelessness and it ends with hopelessness. As I write this, another great marriage of friends of ours, waits on the chopping block for the cleaver or the rescue, whichever comes first. Unfortunately, the cleaver has the head start. What comes out of those conversations— when the honesty runs like a faucet—is that we can hide our problems masterfully. Consistency in Sunday school doesn’t translate to the kitchen table. The fly on the wall is

thoroughly disturbed at what he sees and hears coming out of the mouths and hearts of Christians. I don’t exclude myself from the boat either. If some things I’ve spoken to my wife were posted on a billboard, you’d wonder if I were saved. On the flip side, I’ve watched while God healed marriages where a spouse or spouses lived a life of deception, addiction, abuse, and adultery that would make Hugh Hefner blush. I’m talking about going way beyond the boundaries of conceivable reconciliation. I

If God can build a bridge, certainly He can re-build a burnt one. believe. I’ve seen it. I haven’t lived it thank God, but I’ve seen it, and I know hope. When it comes down to it, brokenness has to come—brokenness that accompanies repentance. Nothing short of an all-out, onyour-face, crouched-in-the-fetal-position slobberfest will do. That heavy-gauged, metal heart has to melt. That stiff neck has to bend. That locked jaw needs shattering. If you’re in no mood for that, then you’d better pray He puts you in the mood for it. Because the truth is this: There may be things we refuse to reconcile, but there is nothing that can’t be reconciled. You may feel justified in your response to someone else’s

behavior, but before whom? I’m not saying that in some cases you don’t have a biblical right to quit, but I am saying that you still have options before they’re thrown away. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 23). If His grace isn’t sufficient, then neither is His blood. If God Himself takes us back and redeems us from our repeated offenses, then we’re without excuse as it concerns forgiveness and reconciliation. If God can build a bridge, certainly He can re-build a burnt one. “By delay of repentance, sin strengthens, and the heart hardens. The longer ice freezeth, the harder it is to be broken.” Thomas Watson Right now, if your hand is raised with a towel in it, don’t throw it in just yet. Ask God to break you first, and then go from there. She’s not your problem; He’s not your problem; I am my problem; and You are your problem. So deal with yourself first. About ten years ago, I was part of a Sunday school class with about 20 married couples in it. To my knowledge, five of those marriages don’t exist today, with another handful on shaky ground. Take a look around on Sunday morning and consider the real possibility that even though your friends appear fine, you could be very wrong about that. Ask them sincere questions. Pray for them and pray with them.

Shawn Dean is Regional Sales Manager for Airflo Sales, Inc., located in Ridgeland, MS. He and his wife, Laura Beth, have three children, Isabelle, Ann Mabry, and Mary Frances. They live in Madison. metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 25

➺education connection by SUSAN MARQUEZ

200 Million Flowers “How can there be too many children? It’s like saying there are too many flowers.” – Mother Teresa achel Robertson grew up in a “normal” family, where scripture was etched on her heart on a daily basis. But when her husband, family attorney Craig Robertson, was handling adoptions for several of the couples’ friends, they both learned that the expense of adoption was great, and the process was long and tedious. “It broke our hearts when we realized how much adoption really costs,” said Rachel Robertson. “I began doing research and realized how many kids are right here in Mississippi without a mama or daddy to etch that scripture that is so precious to me on their hearts.” She got involved with a transitional home where teens that have aged out of the foster care system went before going out into the world. “I realized then that we had a God-sized project on our hands.” From their experiences, the Robertsons formed a unique, non-profit adoption agency, which they named 200 Million Flowers. The name comes from the quote by Mother Teresa, as well as the fact that there are over 200 million orphans in the world. In doing their research, the Robertsons discovered that over 7,000 teenagers give birth each year in Mississippi alone. There are 231 abortions for every 1,000 births in the USA. There are 3,700 children in the foster care system in Mississippi; 150 children are cleared for adoption, and are waiting for a family today. After learning the statistics, the idea for 200

26 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Million Flowers was born, and they began working with a social worker to become a licensed adoption agency in Mississippi.That license came through on April 10 of this year. The couple hired Mary Margaret Harper to help with fundraising. Already, the organization is working with 12 families to help facilitate the adoption process. “We walk them through the process to make it easier, from helping with the paperwork to going with the social worker to do home studies,” Harper explained. “We will also work with the birth moms, making ourselves available to them 24/7 to talk, listen, or just to provide a safe place to help them deal with the emotions of pregnancy and giving a child up for adoption.” Harper said that a pregnant teen or young adult is in a tough spot, and through 200 Million Flowers, they will work with the birth mom to – Bob make sure she’s not alone. “We’ll stay in contact after the birth of the child, and we are working on developing a mentoring program.” One of the main projects at 200 Million Flowers is a partnership with the Mississippi Department of Human Services (DHS). “There is no central registry in Mississippi,” said Craig Robertson. “We are currently working on a project to create a central registry, and it is our hope that it will be replicable around the nation.

We are starting at home, but there is a global orphan crisis, and this is a God-sized problem that is much bigger than us. We are striving to do something that is bigger than ourselves and to leave a legacy of service for our children.” Harper said that the organization is forming a team of photographers and writers to compile a list of children available to be adopted and placed in homes. The children are typically 10 to 18 years old, and much care has to go into working with them.” In working with the 200 Million Flowers organization, Harper has been most surprised by the amount of paperwork required by adoptive parents. She was also surprised by the number of teen pregnancies in the state. Their second fundraiser is scheduled for December 6 at the Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson. The event will feature a silent auction, and an appearance by Bob Goff Goff, author of Love Does, and the founder of Restore International. Harper said “We are building our financial reserves so that eventually we can help families with the cost of adoption.” Tickets for the event are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.200millionflowers.org or by calling 601-790-1144. “We are still seeking donations of artwork for the auction, and sponsorships for the event,” said Harper. Y

God is always trying to save lives, and it seems like He uses the least likely people to dot it.

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➺living my call by MARILYN TINNIN

Q&A with Dr. Dion F. Porter, Pastor of

Terry Grove Missionary Baptist Church erry Grove Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1865 and is the oldest African American Church in the Terry area. Under

consideration for the National Register of Historic Places, the congregation recently held a homecoming celebration and looks forward to dedicating a new facility in November.

MCL: Tell us a little about your background, family, and education Dr. Porter: I am a 1988 graduate of Provine High School. I received my Bachelor and Masters degrees from Jackson State University, and I received my Doctorate degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. I am the son of Mr. Allen Underwood and Ms. Cleopatric Porter. I have three brothers and one sister, and I am happily married to the former Ms. LuFunya Robinson of Belzoni, MS.

MCL: When did you know God was calling you to the ministry and how did it happen?

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601.939.5082 LIKE us on Facebook 28 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Dr. Porter: I knew that God was calling me about six years before I actually went into the ministry. Through a tragic incident that happened to me, I was able to witness the transforming, healing power of God. Although I didn’t know when or where I would be called into the ministry, I did realize that I had a heavy calling on my life. It was that calling that has led me to where I am today.

MCL: Tell us a little about the November celebration. Dr. Porter: The November celebration will be in the style of an open house—in which we will invite the surrounding communities, pastors, and churches—to witness as to what God has done for our church family. Prayerfully, the dedication celebration will take place in midto-late November, and everyone will be invited.

MCL: What impact do you see Terry Grove having on the community of Terry in years to come?

Dr. Porter: I have been a member of Terry Grove Missionary Baptist Church for 10 1/2 half years.

Dr. Porter: I see Terry Grove Missionary Baptist Church affecting great change throughout the community through our witnessing and evangelizing about the goodness of Jesus Christ. I want our church to mimic what good Christian living really is to all those to whom we are witnessing.

MCL: What makes this particular congregation a joy to serve?

MCL: How many members do you have and what are your service times?

Dr. Porter: It is the blend of all the different personalities and characters that make the Terry Grove Missionary Baptist congregation a joy to serve. The dedication and hard work of its members has made doing God’s work a pleasure that I will always cherish.

Dr. Porter: Presently we have over 300 members at Terry Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Our worship times are as follows: Sunday School 9:30-10:15 a.m.; Sunday Worship at 10:45 a.m.; and Bible Study is Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Y

MCL: How long have you been a member of Terry Grove?

Dr. Porter is married to the former Ms. LuFunya Robinson

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➺food for thought Thanksgiving Memories

“My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work.” – John 4:34

by LYDIA BOLEN

olidays mean spending special time together as family. Shared memories of years’ past always seem to evoke talk of home cooking and familiar dishes. I give thanks this Thanksgiving holiday for many fond memories of growing up in South Mississippi. Our holiday table always included

a big casserole of cornbread dressing to complement the turkey. I am sharing my Grandmother Massey’s dressing recipe revised by three generations. Margaret Lowery graciously shared her family favorite—String Bean Casserole. Her family anticipates seeing this dish appear each

year on their holiday table. Sweet Potato Pie is comfort food at its best. Several friends shared their family recipe for this delicious pie; the one I chose has a heavenly aroma while baking! The maple whipped topping makes it my personal favorite. Enjoy!

CORNBREAD DRESSING

SWEET POTATO PIE

STRING BEAN CASSEROLE

36 cornbread muffins (I use Martha White’s self-rising cornbread mix.) 3 hamburger buns, toasted 1 stick unsalted butter, melted 2 green bell peppers, chopped fine fresh parsley (1 to 2 bunches) 2 bunches green onions, chopped 3 white onions, chopped 1 bunch celery, chopped 2 cans cream of mushroom soup 1 1/2 boxes of Swanson’s low-sodium chicken broth 3 hard boiled eggs, sliced Salt and pepper to taste Melt one stick butter in a large skillet. Wilt onions, celery, and bell peppers in the melted butter. Heat chicken broth and soups together. Crumble cooked cornbread and the hamburger buns. Mix heated soups to cooked vegetables and crumbled breads. Lastly, add a bunch (two if desired) of snipped parsley, along with the sliced boiled eggs. Add salt and pepper to desired taste. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Bake dressing in two greased 9” x 13” casserole dishes until completely heated. (About 45 minutes) NOTE: Dressing is best assembled a few days before serving. This recipe is enough to bake one and freeze one casserole. Freezes well in a gallon-size freezer bag.

30 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

4 1/2 1/4 3/4 2 1 1/2 1/8 1/8 1/8 1/2 3/4 1

medium sweet potatoes stick butter, softened cup sugar cup brown sugar eggs, beaten teaspoon pure vanilla extract teaspoon ground cinnamon teaspoon ground ginger teaspoon ground nutmeg teaspoon ground allspice teaspoon salt cup evaporated milk unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust Maple Whipped Cream (recipe cellow)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Bake sweet potatoes for 1 hour in the oven on a baking sheet. When done, let cool. Scrape the pulp out of the skin, transfer to a large bowl, and mash. Set aside. In a medium bowl, beat together butter, sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Add evaporated milk and stir mixture into sweet potatoes. Beat together with mixer until smooth and pour into an unbaked pie shell. Bake for 1 hour or until center of pie is firm. Add dollop of whipped cream if desired.

1 1 1 1/4 2 1 3/4 1/8 2 1 5

8-ounce can sliced mushrooms medium onion, chopped stick unsalted butter cup flour cups warm milk cup Half & Half pound sharp cheddar cheese teaspoon Tabasco teaspoons soy sauce teaspoon salt packages French-style frozen green beans 1 5-ounce can sliced water chestnuts, drained 3/4 cup sliced almonds Sauté mushrooms and onions in butter. Add flour, milk, cream, cheese, Tabasco, soy sauce and salt, stirring till cheese melts and sauce is smooth. Cook green beans according to package directions. Mix with sauce. Add water chestnuts. Pour into a 9” x 13” casserole dish or 2 smaller casseroles. Top with almonds. Bake at 375 degrees until bubbly. Serves 12 to 15. Y

MAPLE WHIPPED TOPPING

1 cup heavy whipping cream 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar 2 tablespoons maple syrup In a medium bowl, beat together whipping cream and confectioners’ sugar. Add maple syrup. Beat together until soft peaks form.

Remember to make memories through the kitchen— “the heartbeat of the home.” E-mail me at lbbolen@gmail.com for any questions.

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Claude Harbarger President of St. Dominic Health Services 32 NOVEMBER 2012 â?&#x2DC; Metro Christian Living

If you met Claude Harbarger on a Sunday morning where he is regularly in attendance at First Presbyterian Church at 1390 North State Street in Belhaven’s prime and historic location, you might just suppose a lot of things about him. You might be wrong on most of them. With his Ward Cleaver-like demeanor, who could guess that this soft spoken and somewhat reserved gentleman and Presbyterian elder is the confident, able president of St. Dominic Health Services, one of the South’s most prestigious Catholic healthcare institutions. In that role, he oversees more than 3,000 employees, 500 physicians, and a sprawling network of special divisions. Although Claude is the first administrator of this healthcare system who is not a Dominican Sister, there are indeed common threads that bind them together. That would be a mutual love of the Lord and a shared vision in being part of a community committed to demonstrating a deep concern for the health of the total person—body, mind, and spirit. So, it is a tribute both to the Sisters’ genuine desire to provide for the community and the equally genuine desire of Claude Harbarger to go where God led that the two came together, and are today working together, to enhance the quality of healthcare and meet the ever-growing needs of a diverse population in the entire central Mississippi area.

Claude’s Journey As the oldest of six children—five boys and one girl—Claude grew up in Huntsville, Alabama. He describes a loving Christian home with supportive parents. He enjoyed success as an athlete in high school, both in baseball and serving as the quarterback of his football team. Karis Harbarger, who has three older brothers, grew up in Miami and was likewise fortunate to have loving parents and a deep heritage in the church. When they met at Auburn University in the mid 1970s, both were grounded in their faith and seemed to have an unusually strong resolve about what they were looking for in a mate. Claude describes noticing Karis early on in an accounting class they shared. He was so interested, in fact, he had a mutual friend do the legwork for him and find out whether or not Karis had a boyfriend and if she was open at all to an invitation from him. The rest is, as they say, history. Claude shares that although he began his college career in Pre-med, his grades quickly indicated that perhaps he was not as strong in the sciences as he needed to be to count on being accepted to medical school. He had already logged enough hours as a nursing assistant and operating room tech to realize he truly loved everything about the hospital setting, so, he wisely began to shop around to see what other options were out there for someone like him. He discovered the field of hospital administration. The more he researched and the more he talked with people who were familiar with this field, the more he felt like it was a genuine fit for him. He completed

a degree in psychology mostly because he could finish in four years (a BIG thing to his parents who had five more children to send to college), take some business courses, and plan to go on to master in healthcare administration. The “God thing” in all of Claude’s deliberations is how valuable that Psychology training has been through the years as his every single day revolves around dealing with people. Who but God could have arranged that? Karis was a fashion merchandising major and went to work right after college with Pizitz, a historic and prestigious department store headquartered in Birmingham. (Pizitz was part of the group acquired by McRae’s and eventually became Belk.) Whatever her ultimate career ambitions, they were definitely put on permanent hold when she married Claude. She has not, after 34 years, regretted her decision to hang up her corporate aspirations to be his complete helpmate and the chief executive operating officer of the Harbarger household. Claude and Karis married in 1978, and after he completed his academic requirements at UAB, they moved to Augusta, Georgia, where Claude was assigned to complete his degree with hands on training at Humana Hospital there in Augusta. The newly-wed Harbargers (and Claude laughs as he says, “Karis gave up the name Karis Adams to be Karis Harbarger—she must have loved me”) moved to Augusta and set up housekeeping. One of their first endeavors was to find a church home. Both came from strong Christian roots and they shared a common priority of finding a church that was supportive, nurturing, and one that encouraged their spiritual growth. They were completely overwhelmed with the way God answered that prayer. They settled into First Presbyterian Church in Augusta where the class for the young marrieds was pretty much wall-to-wall in attendance every Sunday. Karis describes a format that included teaching, along with substantial “mentoring and guiding” Both agree what they gleaned in those early years in that environment made a profound and lasting impression on their lives and all the years that followed. Just as an aside, I had to ask if they ever attended the Masters. Oh, yes. A member of their church offered them tickets—the first time—two weeks before the birth of their first child. Karis wonders if she may be the only person who ever walked the entire Masters course while she was nine months pregnant! Their son, Claude, arrived two weeks later! metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 33

Later Career

Vice President-Professional Services position. It had come down to a decision between two finalists. Karis and Claude and two-week-old Laura traveled to Jackson for the interview. To this day Laura takes complete credit for her father’s winning the position. The sisters were won over by the little pink bundle in that blanket! “St. Dominic’s and the Dominican Sisters have been a blessing for us every day we have been here,” says Claude. The Sisters would probably say the blessing runs both ways as they discovered in Claude one who had both a compassionate heart, and the necessary business acumen, to lead the organization they had poured their lives into building.

The Harbargers loved Augusta. They adored their church. The community was a comfortable one. When Claude completed his requisite year in the field in completion of his degree in Hospital and Health Administration, he was promoted to the Assistant Executive Director position at Humana Hospital in Augusta. But opportunity came knocking, and after a great deal of thought and prayer, the Harbargers left Augusta for Crystal River, Florida, where Claude took the reins as Administrator of Seven Rivers Community Hospital. Claude and Karis did not immediately find a church to compare Faith and Family in Jackson with the one they had left behind in Karis and Claude laugh over the fact that their three children are Augusta. They had grown accustomed natives of three different states and that in the first ten years of marriage, to such in-depth Bible teaching, and they lived in five different cities. When settling into a new community, they continued to visit and search for they were always looking for the same things—job satisfaction, spiritual something similar. When one of the nurture, Christian schools, and a community atmosphere where others physicians at the hospital shared his shared their values. It seemed that they found everything they were interest in planting a new church, looking for when they began to explore Jackson’s options. Claude and Karis eagerly joined a Their joint decision had been made from the very beginning of their group of eight couples who began to marriage that Karis would be a stay-at-home mom. Claude says, “In a meet regularly and explore that Karis and Claude married in culture where that choice is not given much credit, I have always felt possibility. 1978. blessed that Karis was willing to Although the Harbargers lived in do that. A lot of responsibility fell Crystal River just two and one-half on her shoulders because my job years, they did launch that new church, Seven has always been very demanding Rivers Presbyterian, which today has grown to a in terms of time.” As a Phi Beta membership of over 1,500 and also supports a Kappa, Karis certainly could have school. There is nothing easy about planting a pursued a satisfying career if she church. It speaks volumes about what matters had wanted to. As her husband most to Claude and Karis that they invested points out, her choice to put her much of their time and effort to a cause, knowing energy into full-time that in all likelihood his job was going to send homemaking says a great deal them elsewhere before too very long. about the kind of person she is In 1984, soon after their second son, David, David and Emily Harbarger, Breck and Laura Harbarger and the kind of heart she has. was born, Claude was promoted within his Richardson, Karis, Claude, Rachel, and Claude Harbarger. She is indeed his supportive company, National Medical partner, and they make a Enterprises, and sent to great team. Lebanon, Tennessee, as As Claude, David, and Administrator of University Laura grew, Karis and Medical Center. Finding a Claude were quite church home in Lebanon intentional about parenting. proved to be, once again, not a Karis says, “I did tons of simple task. With two babies in reading when they were tow, they were driving into younger,” reading everything Nashville, a distance of 25 she could find on the subject miles each way, week after of parenting—specifically week to attend church. Christian parenting. Claude was now in his Although Claude did put Enjoying the beach this past summer are (back) seventh year in hospital Baby Jack Richardson and in long hours at the hospital Breck, Claude, David, and Claude: (front) Laura, administration, and although baby Lois Harbarger were Jack, Karis, Emily, Rachel, and Lois. and often attended meetings he knew the hospital setting born two weeks apart! that ran past five o’clock, it was exactly where he wanted to was always important that the family sit down and eat dinner together be, he began to wonder if his particular philosophy and strengths might when he got home. Sundays were not like weekdays in that it really was a be best suited for a non-profit, faith-based, medical facility. He and Karis day of worship and rest. Claude actually taught all three children the began to pray that a door might open in another location—a place where Westminster Catechism on Sunday afternoons, and memorized all 100 they might put down roots, find the right fit with church, schools, and plus questions right along with them! community. When a good friend in healthcare administration at UAB Family vacations, traditional family photo Christmas cards, Boy Scouts, called him one day and mentioned there was an opening at St. Dominic weekend sleepovers with school friends—the Harbarger household was a Hospital in Jackson, Mississippi, Claude promptly acted on the suggestion hub of activity as the children grew. Claude and Karis can laugh today to apply. about one of their most trying episodes as parents. The year was 1987, and the Harbarger family had just added daughter, When their adolescent boys began to push the envelope and test their Laura, to the brood, when Claude was invited to interview for the Senior 34 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

boundaries, one particular battle of the wills resulted in banishing the television. The Harbarger children did not get it back for about six years! Claude, who is today completing an ear, nose, and throat residency in Augusta, Georgia, says he credits his acceptance into medical school with the fact that during the years there was no television to entertain him, he became a voracious reader and a serious student. Karis established her own morning ritual with Claude, David, and Laura each morning as they headed out the door. She reminded them of Ephesians 4:29 which says, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Karis says, “They heard those words a lot,” and it was just another way she and Claude took seriously God’s admonition to “train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6).

Growing with the St. Dominic Mission When St. Dominic opened its doors in 1946, its temporary home was on President Street in an old building that had been the Jackson Infirmary. These brave Dominican Sisters from Springfield, Illinois, probably had no idea their ministry of Christian healing would become the tremendous entity that it is today. With six subsidiaries under the St. Dominic Health Services umbrella, their initial commitment to treating the whole person—the mind, the body, and the spirit—is more vibrant and visible today than ever before. Claude explains, “St. Dominic’s is much more than a hospital as our outreach programs extend our ministry beyond our walls and into the community.” Claude arrived at St. Dominic’s with a real excitement over the prospect of working in an environment where his Christian faith was integrated into his passion for the field of healthcare administration. He talks about the privilege he has had to work through the years with his remarkable predecessors, Sr. Josephine Therese and Sr. Dorothea. In his 25th year, he continues to be inspired by those with whom he works and the culture that exists throughout St. Dominic’s. He cites daily occurrences of kindness or a little extra gesture of helpfulness among employees, patients, visitors, and physicians, who all continually reinforce his belief in the Christian healing ministry. There is something refreshing about working in an environment where the core of the gospel and the love of Christ are woven into the fabric of everything that goes on. The 23-acre campus is impossible to miss as one travels the I-55 corridor through the heart of Jackson. St. Dominic’s is an impressive and beautiful community within a community, with professional offices, the hospital, a cancer facility, a behavioral health facility, a chapel, a fitness center, and a generous arrangement of parking places! But that campus is

just a part of St. Dominic’s comprehensive mission to healthcare. Claude has been much a part of the expansion efforts and says, “Our family of services and caregivers not only serves the needs of patients but actively establishes relationships to meet people where they are to improve the quality of their lives. That includes: St. Catherine’s Village in Madison County which provides independent living, assisted living, an Alzheimer’s facility and nursing home care; St. Dominic’s Community Health Clinic which has provided free care to the indigent and underserved in the Stewpot area of Jackson since 1996; St. Dominic’s Care-A-Van program with its 42-foot mobile screening bus which travels throughout Central Mississippi conducting both screenings and education programs for school-age children, the elderly and other underserved in our community; New Directions for Over 55 wellness program designed to meet the unique needs of mature adults by providing social interaction, enrichment opportunities and wellness education to help promote healthy, active lifestyles.” Healthcare reform has been a huge political football in recent years. Reforms, though undeniably needed, present an array of challenges to every individual in every age, stage, and economic tier. Claude is optimistic as he looks at the future for St. Dominic’s. The sponsorship of the Dominican Sisters and the mission that drives from their sponsorship will keep St. Dominic’s focused on the high Claude and Sister Dorothea, his calling of Christian healing predecessor, have always worked well together. They share a honoring God and loving those commitment to Christ and a entrusted to their care. passion for the St. Dominic mission. “It’s easy to have a Christian mission statement,” says Claude, “but how do you make that alive to people?” That, he explains, is the challenge he and the Dominican Sisters grapple with and take seriously every day. It is clear there is a consensus among Claude and the devout and dedicated Sisters who have allowed their hospital to transition to lay leadership that the best healthcare system will always be one that is a strong, faith-based model where the life and dignity of every person is the first priority. Y

metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 35

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➺salt & light by MARILYN TINNIN

BOY SCOUT TROOP 18 Character, Heritage, and Tradition THE BOY SCOUT OATH On my honor, I will do my best To do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; To keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight.

he Boy Scouts of America have not altered the words of their oath since their beginnings in 1910. In a world

where few long standing institutions have not been swayed by the tide of evolving public opinion, it is noteworthy that the Boy Scouts continue, in 2012, to stand on the same principles that defined them 102 years ago! Not only do they unapologetically cling to their values, they continue to be an organization that attracts today’s sharp, bright young men—and the kind who become leaders in every generation. If you doubt that statement, start paying attention to the obituaries. I frequently read many where among the greatest accomplishments some men list on their final resume is Eagle Scout. First Presbyterian Church is the charter partner for Troop 18, one of 90 troops that comprise central Mississippi’s 22-county Andrew Jackson Council. The troop’s roster numbers around 110 in any given year, and it is, along with Troop 1 at St. James Episcopal church, the largest troop in the state. It was in the early 1920’s that Troop 18 received its charter. Since that time, the number of Eagle Scouts—the highest, the most prestigious, and the most difficult rank to earn—numbers close to 300. The names, all the way back to the first Eagle Scout, Stokes Robertson in 1926, include a long list of men whose successes in business, medicine, law, government, and the armed services read like a Hall of Fame of sorts. To read from 1926 to 2012 is to find names of grandfathers, fathers, and sons represented here. What is it about Boy Scouts—and this troop specifically—that they have managed not just to survive, but to thrive in today’s world? Tony Haines, the CEO of the Andrew Jackson Council, grew up in Mobile, but has been involved with Boy Scouts for 42 years—ever since he joined a Cub Scout troop as a seven year-old. He can easily explain the reason Boy Scouts continues to be relevant. Its core values are timeless and cannot be improved upon. But the program continues to build its activities around interests of the day. Tony says that what might have been cool as an activity 50 years ago doesn’t pack the same excitement for 38 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

today’s boy. In our culture where kids have been exposed to a plethora of diverse experiences no matter where they grow up, strong Boy Scout programs are constantly creative in providing modern experiences that interest and engage. Smart dads and volunteers recognize that the process can change, but the goal of building a man of integrity and character is no small feat, and they are willing to get out of their own comfort zones to invest the time and nurture toward a most honorable goal. Dr. Bryant Boswell was one of many Boy Scouts who returned to the Boy Scout organization as an adult. He became a Scoutmaster for the first time while serving in the U.S. Army in Pennsylvania in the 1960s. When he completed his time in the Army and came home to Mississippi, he was approached by his church, First Presbyterian, to lead Troop 18. His own life had been so positively affected by Boy Scouts that he gladly accepted. Through the 1970s, he had the privilege of leading countless boys and watching the Boy Scout formula do just as much in their lives as it had done in his. Dr. Jimmy Moore, one of Bryant’s scouts, found himself, coming back to that same troop years later as a leader. He touts Dr. Boswell’s commitment and passion for the program for igniting his own life-long enthusiasm for Boy Scouts. Looking back he says with conviction, “I think that the most significant benefit I had from Scouting as a teenager was the development of my own sense of integrity and the ability to grow comfortable with myself in the awkward years of adolescence. Scouting is in the business of turning young boys into real men—not just guys that love to be in the woods, but guys that understand the importance of telling the truth and having the honor of their word.” As father to three boys, Jimmy had firsthand experience understanding how to keep boys engaged in something, so he was a natural as a Boy Scout leader. He also found that he was not alone because he constantly found other fathers who, like him, had great memories of scouting and who also recognized that the benefits they

received through the Boy Scout program had continued to play a part in Local physician, Dr. Holt Crews, leads Troop 18 today. He did not their lives every single day. But to Jimmy, it was quite astounding that grow up as a Scout, but came to an interest via his three sons’ there were other volunteers, outstanding professionals in their 20s, who involvement. He echoes the sentiment shared by the other men. “There were yet to become fathers, but who so believed in the are a lot of worthwhile activities that we can have our Boy Scout program that they gave their time freely to kids involved in, but there are few that have such a “I hope the Boy Scouts impact the boys. Such a generous spirit is testimony to strong emphasis on character development. There are will practice truth and the success of the Boy Scout objective. And it also also very few activities at this age that people take into square dealing and explains something of the strength and consistent quality account later in life.” courage and honesty. of Troop 18. Jimmy Moore recounts a favorite memory that The man who counts Jimmy’s father, Jim Moore, put in his volunteer hours illustrates the lifelong, heartfelt, fraternal relationship and the boy who as an adult also. The Boy Scout program’s profound Troop 18 shares across generations. Jimmy’s childhood counts are the man impact in his life could not be overstated. His own father friend and fellow Boy Scout and Boy Scout volunteer, passed away when he was just two years old. “Scouting Will Vise, lost his father, Dr. Guy Vise, quite and boy who steadily was key to my development,” he says. It was through the unexpectedly a few years ago. Dr. Vise, also a former endeavor to build up, vehicle of scouting that he had the opportunity to be Boy Scout, had been a great supporter of Troop 18. He to improve, to better mentored and led by the best. He, too, was father to frequently taught some of the Scouts their Forestry living conditions three boys and spent countless hours in specifically boymerit badges, as well as often opened up his farm everywhere and all child activities with all three of his sons. From Little outside of Meridian for campouts. There was a great about them.The same League to other athletic pursuits, he logged a lot of deal of respect and love among the boys for Dr. Vise. qualities that mean hours doing what fathers do to bond with their offspring. On the day of Dr. Vise’s funeral, Jimmy had a success or failure to He says, “Scouting is really without peer among activity number of the younger Scouts bring their full uniform the nation as a whole choices because it concentrates on teaching values. But to the church, and they lined up in two perfectly parallel mean success or those values are so woven into the fabric of the activity, lines outside the church doors in a full class A salute as failure in men and that the kids are just having fun. They barely realize the the casket passed by. There were no dry eyes in the boys individually.” character development that is happening.” crowd or among the family, and as Jimmy says, “It was a – Teddy Roosevelt He also says that during his career days with MP&L very cool way for the boys to say thanks to a man who (now Entergy), he frequently had the task of hiring taught them in Scouting.” employees. “When I saw Eagle Scout on an application, And what a teachable moment—one of many those I can honestly say I was never disappointed in a job performance or work young boys will carry with them as they become the men of tomorrow. ethic.” Y

The Andrew Jackson Council, Boy Scouts of America is all about preparing young people for life. Over thirty years ago, Hood Scout Reservation was a gift from Mr. Warren A. Hood, Sr. With over 1300 acres, this property has provided hundreds of thousands of Scouts the opportunity to learn, grow and lead. Today there is a great need for updating, upgrading and expanding the reservation. Independent research has provided insight and statistics on the outcomes of attending a Boy Scout camp and participating in outdoor programs. There is no question that Scouting promotes healthy development in the lives of young people. As times have changed, the interests of our youth have changed. Technology, communication, unique challenges and high level innovative skill sets are just a few examples of what our young people are seeking. The Andrew Jackson Council is determined to provide our future youth with a first class, unique kind of attraction that will continue to draw Scouts and families from all around the country. Be part of our Capital Campaign to modernize and improve the Hood Scout Reservation. Invest in the future. There are at least 12 ways to contribute. Give us a call. We would love to share our story with you. Andrew Jackson Council Boy Scouts of America 855 Riverside Drive, Jackson, MS 601-948-6111

BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA® “Preparing Young People For Life” FIND US ON FACEBOOK @ Hood Scout Reservation, BSA or Andrew Jackson Council, BSA metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 39

➺homeworks by CATHY HAYNIE

DINNERTIME

When you give, people live

Devotionals

he spiritual training of children is central to our role as a parent.

The foundation to all other training, this important responsibility often takes a back seat when our lives are more on the chaotic side. We begin seeing work, laundry, homework, and soccer practice as the non-negotiables and allow the spiritual things to wait. In our busy world, it is easy to become discouraged and decide we have no time, relegating our duties to “spiritual activities” such as Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and Christian schooling. If this is where you find yourself, consider the possibilities of prioritizing a dinnertime devotional.

Game Time

“Jesus the first blood donor”

An engaging way to begin is the “high, low” game. Let everyone around the table have the chance to share a high point of their day and a low point. This game proved meaningful in our young children’s lives to know what went on in their day and often grew into deeper discussions.

Pass The Basket

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601-981-3232 To find a blood drive near you or to plan your own blood drive.

msblood.com 40 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

A devotional basket might be the starting place for your family’s time. Drop in missionary prayer cards, favorite Bible verses, prayer requests, questions, and even favorite praise songs and hymns. Draw a card each night to spark meaningful conversation and a starting place.

Bible, allowing each family member to read a portion. Reading together is effective and easy.

Special Reads Find a children’s Bible or study guide. Teaching our children God’s Word is the central piece to the family’s devotional or worship time, and finding the right guide can help you accomplish your goal while helping you feel more confident in the task. For young children, try The Big Picture Story Bible by Gail Schoonmaker, and progress to a classic like The Child’s Story Bible by Catherine Vos. To engage in a simple but systematic study of God’s Word with your children, check out the series, Investigating God’s Word at Home, at www.onestoryministries.org. This series takes parents and their children through all of scripture and is a 20-minute per day study that is engaging. You will appreciate that it does not assign a date to each lesson, which frees you to go at your own pace. As you consider how to start or improve upon a meaningful devotional time for your family, you may want to divide responsibilities among family members, set a regular start and end time, and be sure to encourage discussion. The ideas above can help, but the most essential ingredient is commitment. What’s to gain? A deep spiritual understanding, a strong sense of family, a Biblical moral compass, and eternity, of course.

Daily Bread Read scripture together. Proverbs is the “book of wisdom” and proves helpful for training. Try reading the chapter that coincides with the date of the month. Psalms teaches us to praise and promotes worship. Or a great place to start is the beginning! Read a chapter of the

Cathy Haynie and her husband Jack have three children and live in Madison. Cathy is the Headmaster of Christ Covenant School in Ridgeland. Contact her at chaynie@ccs.ms.

➺

single still, single again by AMY INGRAM

Learning from My Dog Mabel o you think it’s silly if I told you God uses my sweet little puppy to teach me life lessons? Hearing that come out of my mouth sounds ridiculous. But He does. I mean, who are we to tell the God of the universe what He can use to teach us? We should look for lessons in the big and small, always. When I built my house I had to put one of the light switches in my cabinet in order to allow for more mirror space. It was my builder’s idea. Lots of people do it he told me, so I obliged and haven’t thought twice about it. My sweet boo stays in my room during the day and has a pet gate that protects her from getting into things she shouldn’t. She normally chews on the pet gate—hopeful to escape—and I’ve accepted this. If it helps her in the moment, so be it. But this day was different. My guess is she was chewing on the pet gate and her head hit the switch. It turned on the light and fan, distracted her, and showed her a whole new toy. But it’s not a toy. It’s a light switch. I came home, found myself really frustrated, showed it to her, fussed and “ugggghhhhh’d” really loudly. You would too. I was strict on her

as a puppy so she knows when I’m not happy. She took off toward her pen and stayed in there until I called her, which broke my heart knowing she was sad she had disappointed me. So here is where I had the “Aha!” moment. Mabel was unhappy and dissatisfied with her play area. She wanted out. She wanted new, different circumstances, so she rebelled a little in order to show her dissatisfaction. While it might have been fun in the moment, it brought unnecessary heartache in the end. God immediately said, “Ah hem, my beloved. Do you see? You can push for your own desires, wants, circumstances, but I know best. Don’t test the waters—wait for me.” You see I’ve grown up thinking I’m supposed to be waiting on my mate. Waiting for life to change in that area. Waiting. And as the years went by, my heart became dissatisfied with God, thinking He didn’t really love me. I felt forsaken—I’ve waited for years! I felt like I wasn’t good enough or pretty enough or ENOUGH for Him to move mountains in my life. I believed He could do it for others, just not me. It’s painful to have an unmet desire. Especially one that flows from God.

“If anyone thirsts, let him come to me and find drink…Out of his heart will flow rivers of ‘living water’” (John 7:37). Do you know I’ve heard this verse since childhood and never, until today, understood what “thirsty” meant. It means to have pain or discomfort in unmet desires. God promises to meet that need and to create rivers of living water if we drink from Him. In other words, HE will satisfy our needs. Always. A heart of discontent is not from God, for He is able to fully provide everything we need. Jesus wants all of me. He wants all of you. Whether married, single, single again, no one will satisfy us but Him. No one. Don’t go searching outside the gate when He’s telling you to wait on Him. It will only cause heartache. Y Amy Ingram is a Senior Account Executive at a local advertising agency. She lives in Madison with her little boo, Mabel. Feel free to contact her at amyeingram@gmail.com and/or follow her on twitter @ingramjackson.

metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 41

➺let’s talk it over by RON MUMBOWER, PH.D., L.M.F.T.

Enjoying This Very Moment id you notice the new colors appearing on that tree this morning outside your window? Did you stop and feel the crispness in the air today? Did you notice the awestruck look of wonder in the eyes of the child staring at the decorations? Will you listen intently to the sound of chatter around the table?

In this busy season, it is essential that we take mini vacations and watch what is going on around us.

42 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

In this busy, hectic world in which we live, it is essential to take a moment to be still, focus on the present, and breathe. Stress has a way of constricting us and making us tighten up and therefore react negatively to situations. We lose creativity and the ability to relax. In this busy season, it is essential that we take mini-vacations and watch what is going on around us. Try one or both of these exercises as a way to help you enjoy this moment, be aware of the LIFE that is around you, and to see things that you have been missing. • Take a few moments to focus on your breath. First, get comfortable, either sitting with your back straight against a firm chair or lying on your back. Relax and watch yourself breathe. Don’t do anything to change how you breathe. Just notice what is happening. Notice that breathing continues without you doing anything, and just observe this. If you find that your mind has wandered, simply bring it back and once again watch yourself breathe. Don’t waste any energy reprimanding yourself. Just observe. Now, after doing this for a few moments, count each new breath as you draw it in. Again, don’t attempt to change anything about your breathing. Just focus on it, counting each inhalation. Once you get to ten, start over again. Do this for several minutes and then get up, allowing your breathing to continue unobserved. • Look around you wherever you are right now. Allow your eyes to settle on whatever object comes into the center of your field of vision, and then focus on whichever part of this object you first notice—holding this focus for two complete breath cycles. Then move your attention to another object, again focusing on whichever part of it first captures

your attention, holding this for another two complete breath cycles. Take five minutes to continue doing this, allowing your attention to be fully absorbed by the things that surround you wherever you are. Do this once or twice a day in the environment where you spend most of your daytime. Notice how it begins to enliven your awareness in this environment that you may have become insensitive to because of its familiarity. These exercises were taken from a book entitled, Soulful Spirituality: Becoming Fully Alive and Deeply Human by David G. Benner. Benner spends a lot of time explaining awareness and enjoying this present moment. Psalms 46:10 tells us, “Be still and know that I am God.” Matthew 11:29-30 from The Message, says, [Jesus speaking]...“I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me— watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” So enjoy this season with a set of new senses and watch how much rest, enjoyment, peace, and breathing you will experience. AAH—now doesn’t that sound much better than a lot of stress? Y Ron Mumbower is the Director of Summit Counseling at First Baptist Church Jackson. He will be teaching a class on “Living the Great Adventure in the Next Season,” starting Wednesday evenings September 7 at First Baptist Church, Jackson.

➺

legal advice

by WILLIAM B. HOWELL

How Can I Give to My Children, but Keep Control? hat question arises frequently in the context of planning for what may happen to us and our assets in the future, whether we pass away or we become incapacitated due to dementia or other cause. Can this objective really be achieved? Yes it can. In more than one way. Maybe we have one child who is not good at managing his money; or we have a child who has been through one or more divorces and may have another one of these days (or his situation is such that you feel a divorce is going to happen, it’s just a matter of time); or we have a child who has had to file for bankruptcy, or has been sued because of a car wreck or other action. In short, we are concerned that if we just give it to them outright, they may lose it. Or at the very least they may not manage it very well (whatever “it” is). Many families have chosen to put some or even most of their assets into a Limited Partnership with the parent or parents in control as the General Partner, and the children holding only Limited Partner interests which carry no rights to manage or otherwise direct the enterprise. Could be the

family business, could be the family farm, could be the family timber land, or it could be the family investments; or just about anything else you would like to protect. So, what does this structure accomplish. It can remove some, if not all of, the ownership of the assets from the parent’s estate so that the assets will not be part of the estate to be taxed at the parent’s death, or at least a lesser amount will be in the estate to be taxed. Also, this is a very good way of allowing the children to begin to participate along with you in the management of the family assets in a “trial run” manner. There are no additional income taxes due with a Limited Partnership. There are also some very good asset protections afforded to the parents as they establish the Limited Partnership and put their assets into it. The General Partner will require some “tweaking”, but this is a method often employed as a major part of a good asset protection estate plan. Another way of conveying assets to the next generation and still maintain some level of control (or at least not relinquish all control) is in using a Life Estate arrangement. The way it

works is fairly simple: the parent gives a portion of the ownership to the children and retains a portion, so the ownership is divided. If the parent’s interest only for the lifetime of the parent, it is said to be a “Life Estate” and the interest the children would have is called the “Remainder Interest”. While Life Estates are commonly used, they do have some drawbacks: you cannot sell the property, you can only sell your Life Estate interest, and who would likely buy that, since you could die tomorrow and that interest would then end? Also, if an offer to purchase the entire real estate should come along, you can’t sell it all, because you don’t own it all. And what if, unfortunately, one of the children has passed away in the meantime and you are dealing with their estate, or worse your deceased child’s spouse and maybe his or her new spouse? Not a very comfortable position to be in. A well-drawn Limited Partnership can avoid the problems. Yes, there are ways of giving it away and keeping some level of control. This is not “one size fits all” planning. Get some good advice, but do something. It may be one of the smartest things you can do.Y

You have worked hard for it. WHY THROW IT AWAY? We are all living longer. But we are not all going to be in good health, or aware of our families, or both. Then what happens? Someone has to take over. The question is: Will this be someone you chose? And will it be outside of court or in court? The same with the distribution of your assets after you pass away: In court or out of court? The choice is yours. What about protecting your assets from lawsuits, or a child’s inheritance from a divorce? And will most of your hard-earned savings go to the nursing home? Or have you planned? Here are a few ideas for you to consider:

Living Trust – Allows the person you choose to take over for you in the event of your incapacity, without any court involvement. At your death the person you have chosen makes the distribution of your assets the way you have instructed in your Living Trust, and to do so promptly, inexpensively and privately, without going through probate in the court. Asset Protection – Lawsuits are filed every day. If you get sued, are your assets protected? They can be, and probably should be. Also, the divorce rate has never been higher than it is today. Will your child’s divorce cause them to lose half of what you leave them after you are gone? Not if you plan now. The level of protection (or not) is up to you.

Nursing Home Planning – Don’t qualify for long term care insurance, or can’t fit it in your budget? You don’t have to spend everything that you have in order to become eligible for nursing home benefits. There are legal and ethical ways for you to save well over half of your assets in most cases, even if you are already in the nursing home. Hear Mr. Howell on the radio

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National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 43

➺this is my story

by MAXINE MOBLEY AS TOLD TO FRANCES JOHNSON

Blind, but Now I See y parents lost two babies in infancy, so when I was born in 1928 they were especially thankful that I was healthy, energetic, and bright eyed. My tiny hands reaching for

colored shapes hanging from the crib indicated I had normal vision. Then at seven months, I suffered unexplained seizures. As I began to crawl and stand, they realized that I was not seeing clearly. Soon doctors confirmed that my optic nerves were destroyed and I would never see anything. I always loved to sing; in fact, Mother told me I sang before I could talk. A devout Christian, she took me with her to church services, where hearing the hymns began my joy in music. At age five, I entered the Mississippi School for the Blind. One of my most vivid memories is a Christmas party where Santa Claus picked me up and carried me around the tree, describing the decorations and gifts, and asked what I wanted. I replied, “A doll with golden curls.” To my delight, he placed in my arms just such a one, saying, “Here she is; she’s been waiting for you.” I named her Goldilocks. About two weeks later, my music teacher at school, Miss Julia Byrd, also blind, planned a program where I was to sit in a little rocking chair and sing a lullaby to my doll. Unfortunately, I developed bronchitis several days before the program. The cough could have prevented my singing, but Mother and Miss Julia were prayer warriors and prayed intensely for me just before I was to go on stage. Miraculously, I performed perfectly without coughing. Only five years old, I had never been away from home and was terribly homesick. One night I was missing at suppertime. After searching the building, Miss Julia went outside in the rain and found me huddled under the eaves crying. Perhaps I thought I could leave and find my way home. Then the principal advised my parents to keep me with them another year. Back at school, I learned Braille and all the other subjects, but music was always my favorite. I enjoyed skating and could go up and down the sidewalks without assistance. When I was 16, my parents moved to California so I could attend the School for the Blind at Berkeley, and perhaps develop a singing career. I lived in the dormitory, and Mother and Father stayed in San Francisco where he could go to work. Dorm life exposed me to liberal moral attitudes that were surprising and distressing to me. I spent weekends with my parents, and discussions with my mother confirmed and re-established my conservative Christian beliefs. After some months my father suffered a back injury, and we returned to Jackson and the Mississippi School for the Blind. My senior year, I had morning classes at Jackson Central High School. I made new friends and sang a solo at the Varsity Show intermission. Although my parents were Methodists, they joined the Presbyterian church near our home. When I was nine years old, Mother taught me the Beginner’s Catechism and learned it herself. We both answered all the questions on the same day and received New Testaments as awards. Later I learned the Shorter Catechism. The answer to the first questions, “It is man’s chief end to glorify God and to enjoy Him 44 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Gilbert and Maxine celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary.

forever,” inspired me to dedicate my voice to God’s glory. On one occasion when I was to sing at a wedding, my accompanist and I were not sure just when our part would begin. She tied a string from the organ to my hand behind the choir rail and at the appropriate time pulled the string. I stood up and sang in perfect unison with the music. After high school, I enrolled at Belhaven College to major in voice and minor in religious education. I was progressing well and had the promise after graduation of a scholarship at the Julliard School of Music in New York; but I fell in love, dropped out of college, and married. He was a World War II veteran who had lost his sight in the

Battle of Iwo Jima. We had one stillborn baby, followed by a son Larry and daughter Sherry. The marriage was never happy. Finally he moved out, leaving me with a house, two babies, very meager support, no prospects for a job, and lasting regrets for my music career that might have been. My parents came to live with me and help financially. When the children started school, I worked for the Mississippi Industries for the Blind for one year. Then the Lord, in His good Providence, sent a marvelous blessing into my life. Gilbert Mobley had been blinded in an automobile accident and came to Jackson to work at the Industries

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1) for the Blind. On the advice of his counselor, a friend of my family, he came to live with us. He settled in comfortably and attended church with us. He and I grew to love each other and were married in 1958. Our union lasted almost 44 wonderful years until his death from cancer in May, 2002.

Gilbert was a fine Christian stepfather to my children. They both attended public schools and Belhaven College. Larry lives in Atlanta. His daughter Ginny Owens inherited both my blindness and my musical talent and is a celebrated Christian concert singer. Sherry and her husband live in Little Rock and have three grown children and two grandchildren, giving me the joy of being a great grandmother. While Gilbert continued working at the Industries for the Blind, I received training in medical transcription and had a job at the new University Medical Center for almost 15 years. When my parent’s health failed, I stayed at home to care for them. My mother died in 1977 and my father in 1978. Suffering with them was very hard, but drew me closer to the Lord. As a child, I prayed every night that God would let me see, but that was not His will. Instead, He has given me spiritual discernment. In 1971, my family and I joined First Presbyterian Church and I spent some of the happiest times of my life in that choir until bad health prevented my participation. The ministers and congregation have faithfully visited and assisted me and prayed for me through several illnesses, including three cancer battles. I derive much joy from daily devotions in Braille and audible Bibles. Throughout my life each crisis has brought me close to God and made me realize my dependence upon Him. With the many blessings He has provided, I can never ask, “Why me?” All He has planned for me has been much better than anything I could have imagined. I can always rejoice in Psalm 27: 1 “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” Y

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➺fresh finds 1 | Inside Story Bullshed products made in Pelahatchie MS! Specialty sauce, $7.95 A new take on comeback dressing Sweet & Spicy dressing and Dip, $7.95 Salsa, $9.95

2 | Apple Annies Personalized iPhone Otterbox Case, $70; iPhone Skin Cover; $28 3 | O! How Cute Aromatique Candle, $19.95 Aromatique Room Spray, $12.95 Collegiate Stocking Ornamnents, $14.95 4 | Pampered Chef Deep Covered Baker, $85 Bake a 5-lb. chicken or turkey breast, 4-lb. roast, casseroles, and more within the hour!

Mix N’ Chop, $11 Unique, beveled pinwheel blades efficiently chop and crumble foods for even cooking and seasoning.

Cookbook for a Cause, $3 Give to families in need when you purchase

5 | Southern Accents Lilly Pulitzer Thermal Mug, $15; Agenda Book $26; Note Cube $16 6 | Rugged Bliss Deep South Originals, $52.99 Real leather and pewter wrap bracelets made in the Delta! 7 | Persnickety Sunday in the South Cookbook, $29.95 Remember Sunday dinners at your grandmother’s house with these recipes!

The Newlyweds’ Cookbook, $27.95 The perfect wedding gift for any couple, whether they are experienced cooks or new to the culinary arts. 8 | Pilates V Studio Gift Certificate, $25, $50, $75, $100 Give the gift of fitness this holiday! 9 | Edible Arrangements Harvest Celebration in Pumpkin Keepsake, $64 10 | Stella & Co. The Candy Cottage, $29.99 Create a new gingerbread house for every holiday with NO baking involved!

46 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

5 6

7 Gift Certificate This Certificate Entitles For A Gift Value At This Gift Presented By

10 9 metrochristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; NOVEMBER 2012 47

➺fresh finds photos by AMELIA KEY

Chimneyville Crafts Festival

Copper Cuff Bracelet by Linda Lindale, $40 Goblets by Keith Stewart, $18

Angel by Jeri Smith, $40

Raku Pottery Vase with Lid by Jan Carter, $140

Mohair Woven Scarf by Sharon Williams, $65

Cross Nightlight by Beth Yarbrough, $20

48 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Pen and Pencil Set with Case by Henry Bufkin, $65

One-of-a-kind people deserve one-of-a-kind gifts David Hartman with a Leslie Turner wind chime

Maggie Wade with Dorinda Evans’ Child’s Star Quilt Photo by Roy Adkins

Photo by Roy Adkins

T H E

3 6 T H

A N N U A L

CHIMNEYVILLE CRAFTS FESTIVAL Jill Conner Browne with one of Susan Clark’s “Whimsical Women” Photo by Roy Adkins

Handcrafted treasures created by some of the region’s ﬁnest master craftsmen to please all the special people on your list! M I S S I S S I P P I T R A D E M A RT

Preview Party | Friday, November 30 | 7pm–10pm Saturday, December 1 | 10am–5pm Sunday, December 2 | 12noon–5pm

Visit the Mississippi Craft Center retail galleries: RIDGELAND

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➺fresh finds courtesy HANDWORKS

31st Annual Handworks Holiday Market

ome celebrate the 31st annual Handworks Holiday Market, Friday and Saturday, November 16-17, at the MS Trade Mart in downtown Jackson. Billed as the state’s “favorite shopping party,” the market will feature more than 150 vendors of handmade gifts. Friday hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is $7, children under 12, free. Stroller-friendly show. Visit www.handworksmarket.com for more details and for a discount admission coupon.

1. Oso Accessories Accompany your wardrobe with “oso” fabulous and fun accessories. Their selection and use of detailed wirework, luminous metals, and crystals combine for vibrant, fun, and sophisticated jewelry.

2. Beelicious Honey Straight from the hives in Hattiesburg, the beekeepers at Beelicious continue to be thankful to the fascinating honeybee, the incredible honey, and Our Maker for creating it all.

3. Patycake Kids

3 1 5

Patycake Kids is a children’s clothing line designed with a traditional style for your unique child! They specialize in children’s smocked clothing for boys and girls with designs that are sure to dress up your favorite little one.

4. The Painter’s Cottage: Rhonda Rayborn If you do not have one of Rhonda Rayborn’s Mississippi Girl tees, where you been? Her Southern slogan t-shirts travel all over the country on the backs of those who love Mississippi quotes.

5. B & S Designs Bobby and Suzette Lofton, create unique and unusual lamp bases with trendy lampshades. They have hand carved items from “rescued” wood—and specialize in Santas, too.

6. Daddy’s BBQ

Barbecue is not just for the 4th of July! Daddy’s BBQ provides the perfect combination for the holidays— delicious meals from easy preparation. Their gourmet sauces will delight those on your gift list or assist you in an easy holiday party.

7. Wyne Chyme At WYNE CHYME (yes it is pronounced Wine Chime), a unique line of products is created from discarded wine bottles. These re-purposed bottles are handcrafted into one-of–a-kind gifts, such as wind chimes, tea lights, candles, vases, lamps, bird feeders, and custom products. Since each is handmade, no two are exactly alike.

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8. Simply Ornamental Simply Ornamental is “not so simple” unique metal art created by Cindy and B.J. Cail. Their beautifully designed holiday products will be a showstopper for your gift list and personal home decorations.

9. The Art of Ken Daley From as far back as he can remember, Ken Daley was certain of one thing: he would live his life as an artist. As Ken explains,“Art is what I am.” Ken Daley’s work is an explosion of color and emotion.

50 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

Thanksgivingfrom Reflections the Metro Christian Living Staff When I think of Thanksgiving, my warmest memories are packing the family up and heading to Guntersville, Alabama, to spend the holidays with my parents and brothers. Mom and Dadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s house was on the lake, so many hours were spent on the porch fellowshipping and simply looking at the water. Year after year, I would bring the same foodâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; homemade cookies, â&#x20AC;&#x153;party mix,â&#x20AC;? and pecan piesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and Dad would take that first bite with relish, as if he had never tasted anything so good in his life. These memories and experiences will last me and my family a lifetime. Carol Rodgers Administrative Assistant

R Being optimistic plays a major role in who I am in everyday life, and what I believe the Lord has called me to be in this life. Therefore, when Thanksgiving comes to mind, I have an abundance of joy and thankfulness that God has blessed me with so many amazing people in my life! One thing to always remember is to be thankful for what you have, and God will make sure youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll end up having an abundance of more! Kimberly Stephens Senior Account Executive

R Thanksgiving has become my favorite holiday. I love spending time with family and friends of all generations. Each year, I look forward to the wonderful smells and tastes of all the food, along with the sounds of conversations and laughterâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;with, of course, the Macyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parade and football games in the background. Several years ago, we began the tradition of having each person name one thing for which

they are grateful. Listening to all those things we are thankful for makes me realize that no matter how difficult life may be at times, we are all truly blessed. Thank you, God! Suzanne Tanner Associate Editor

The one reflection that stands out in my mind about Thanksgiving are the precious memories, and how I realize the older I get, how really precious they are. As a child, I remember thinking how I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to eat grandmotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dressingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which I have to say, I think my grandma Goff had the best! I remember her always saying something was wrong with, â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too dryâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s too moist. But let me tell you, it was always delicious. As a parent, I hope to instill in my son how precious family is to our everyday life. I really see this especially during Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays. The Lord blesses us with our families and memories. Just remember, God and memories last a lifetime. Sandra Goff Graphic Designer and Art Director

R As a child I loved Thanksgiving so much because it was something of a prelude to the Christmas season. The days were finally chilly, and the smells of favorite dishes met you at the front door and drifted through the house for hours before we finally got to sit down and devour the meal! I also loved the turkey sandwiches we ate for days after! But it was always the unhurried conversation and a peaceful sense of belonging together as a family that existed in a way it never did on any other day of the year. The Bible says that God inhabits the praises of his people. No wonder we all have such precious memories of Thanksgiving! Marilyn Tinnin Publisher and Editor

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metrochristianliving.com â?&#x2DC; NOVEMBER 2012 51

➺a pastor’s perspective by DR. ELIAS MEDEIROS

Turmoil in the Middle East

A Christian Perspective

My purpose in this short article is to consider not only the immediate situation in the Middle East today and its impact throughout the world, but also how to address those affected by it—all of us. What, then, is the situation, what are the causes, the real issues, and how should we Christians respond? It is well known and publicized by all types of media that the Middle East (including North Africa) has “exploded in violence and uncertainty.” As a friend, who ministers in that region recently wrote to me, “Hopelessness is writ large before our eyes on the news reports from not one hotspot, but more than thirty.” Such turmoil impacts the whole world, everywhere, and in every area of life—education, economics, politics, tourism, and so forth). As Daniel W. Brown highlighted, “The time when we could depict the Muslim world on a

Thankfully, where social anthropology fails me, the Bible never does! It is only Biblical knowledge that can make sense of the apparently senseless.

single hemisphere is long past, although many cartographers have yet to catch on. The contemporary Muslim community-the umma, is worldwide. Muslims live, work, raise families, and pray everywhere, from China to California, from Chile to Canada; there is almost no place on earth where Muslims have not settled.” In other words, whatever happens anywhere affects everyone, everywhere. But what are the causes of such turmoil, revolutions, terrorisms, etc.? The answer to this complex question is not simple. Governmental authorities, social and cultural anthropologists and activists, religious 52 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

leaders, and the public in general have considered numerous causes: anti-Americanism, anti-Zionism, anti-Christendom, you name it. And those, from all sides, who are involved directly in such discussions, understand the complexity and the naiveté of single-handed answers. But here goes one observation for consideration. Although “it is difficult to generalize about Islam,” the majority of Muslims would probably recognize the turmoil as an integral part of a religious war. As Bernard Lewis, one of the greatest historians of the Middle East, stated, “One of the most dramatic” pronouncements of Osama bin Laden (Usama bin Ladin) “was his mention in his videotape of October 7, 2001, of the ‘humiliation and disgrace’ that Islam has suffered for ‘more than 80 years.’” Whatever causes we attribute to this crisis with worldwide consequences and reverberations, Muslim religious beliefs play the most crucial role. The wars and reactions are motivated by beliefs. Please do not ever take beliefs lightly nor for granted. Beliefs generate commitments. Commitments lead to actions. It is true in practically every area of our lives. While most of the debates run around the

questions of when? What is going on? How can we solve it? And what can we do to promote peace? The real issue to be considered is the motivation behind these conflicts on both sides. In order words—ask Why? At this level, we will be dealing with issues of faith, worldview, fundamental beliefs, and ultimate assumptions. Based on such beliefs, which are anchored in the text of the Qur’an, Islamic tradition literature (Hadith, Sira), Islamic institutions, and Islamic history, it is not difficult to understand that “to Islamists, the threat is theological.” By the way, I am not accusing the Muslims for holding their beliefs. I am just highlighting, what I believe, is one of the main motivational cause of the turmoil as we described it. How, then, should Christians respond? What authority will we use? “Thankfully, where social anthropology [any other science] fails me, the Bible never does! It is only Biblical knowledge that can make sense of the apparently senseless.” (Michael Youssef). Therefore, here are some guidelines to Christians to keep constantly in their hearts, minds, and before they open their mouths. First, every single human being has been made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27). Second, do not ever forget that any human being who ever lived after the fall of Adam and Eve and those that live until the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ have a problem. The basic, fundamental problem is this: each is separated from God due to their rebellion against the Person of God, the Word of God, and the Will of God as revealed in the Holy Scriptures (Genesis 3:1-14). Third, the solution proposed and provided by God is One: Jesus Christ, His only begotten Son, the Seed of the Woman (Genesis 3:15; John 3:16). Fourth, the means by which

Muslims and any of us will ever come to know the forgiveness of our sins, to experience real, divine, loving relationship and fellowship with God the Father, and to display real, divine, love towards one another, is by our sharing of the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ across the street and around the world. It ought to be done by words—faith comes by hearing and hearing the Word of God—and loving deeds towards “neighbors.” Share and live your faith according to the teachings of the Holy Scriptures. May the Holy Spirit empower us and enable us! Therefore, next time we meet a Muslim, a Hindu, or anybody else for that matter, start by saying, “Hello! How are you?” As Colin Chapman advised, “Before asking what Muslims believe or how they practice their faith…we think about how we relate to them as people [made in God’s image] as neighbors in the different situations in which we find ourselves anywhere in the world.” In other words, how should we, as Christians, approach a Muslim? The short answer: “we approach Muslims as human beings. We meet them as people before we meet them as Muslims. We greet them as individuals with a name before we think of them as representatives of a great world religion.” And by the way, they face the same daily struggles and needs (physical, relational, emotional, spiritual), as we do. Pray for them. Approach them. Befriend them. Love them. Share the Good News with them. Y Dr. Elias Medeiros is the Harriet Barbour Professor of Missions at Reformed Theological Seminary in Jackson.

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➺sports victories by ROBERT WILSON

Sports Victories in the Metro

Jackson Academy’s David Sykes

David Sykes isn’t a football coach by accident. “Like a pastor is called to preach, I feel like I was called to be a football coach,” Sykes said. “I was blessed to be able to hopefully make a difference in kids’ lives. It is wonderful to be able to deal with young people on a daily basis and I try to be an effective Christian role model.” Sykes has been following his calling his entire adult life, the last eight years at Jackson Academy. He is in his fourth year as JA’s head high school football coach and fifth year as JA’s junior high dean. Sykes was JA’s head junior high football coach before taking over the high school team. And he’s been ultra-successful on the field. Sykes did not lose a game in four years at the junior high level and has won the Mississippi Association of Independent Schools Class AAA, Division I high school championship for the past three seasons.

54 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

But those victories don’t last. It is the players who he wins over and influences that matter most. Guys like senior offensive lineman Bryan Pittman and junior linebacker Hayes Walker. “We believe in what Coach Sykes teaches us and we trust him,” Pittman said. “He treats us all like his sons and he truly cares about us. Coach Sykes always teaches to keep our priorities in order. He says it is very important that our faith comes first, our family is second and academics and football are third and fourth.” “Coach Sykes has so much experience with football, but he also is able to help us make better choices in everyday life and build our relationship with God,” Walker said. “Faith in God is definitely present in our football program. From Friday morning devotions to saying the Lord’s Prayer every day after practice, it’s not hard to tell that Coach Sykes lives by faith and wants us to

do the same. He has taught me how to be more of a complete person by giving respect to where or to whom it is due and to always give my best effort on anything I’m working on.” Sykes grew up in Indianola, graduated from Indianola Academy, Mississippi Delta Community College and Delta State University. He was a member of First United Methodist Church in Indianola growing up. He is the son of Ruth Sykes and the late Alfred Sykes.

“I try to be Christ-centered in all that I do. I try to set the proper Christian example on and off the football field.” “We (and his brothers Barry and Don) grew up in a Christian home and my mom made sure we were in church every Sunday,” Sykes said. “My parents were good influences on us growing up and it was a good environment to grow up in. “I was a good kid, but about Christmas time when I was a sophomore in high school I realized I needed to do more than just go to church

every Sunday and made a commitment to the Lord to change my life.” After graduating from Delta State, Sykes joined the football coaching staff at Washington School in 1978 and was head football coach from 1986 until 1999. He was also high school principal at Washington his last six years before coming to JA. “I try to be Christ-centered in all that I do,” said Sykes, now a member of Christ United Methodist Church in Jackson. “I try to set the proper Christian example on and off the football field. At the end of the day, I want to be able to say that I made a difference in these kids’ lives.’’ And behind every good coach, there is a loving and committed wife. “The biggest Christian influence in my life is my wife Nancy,” Sykes said. “I would not be where I am today without her and her daily Christian witness. She is not only my wife of 33 years, but also my best friend. The way that she lives her life is an inspiration to me and our family.” David and Nancy Sykes have a son, Adam, who is an assistant football coach at Arlington High in Memphis and a daughter, Jamie Pace, who teaches preschool at JA. They have one grandson, Landon, who is three years old. Y Robert Wilson is Business Developer for BFAC . He is a freelance writer, author, and the publisher of Victories in Metro Jackson magazine. He is a member of Broadmoor Baptist Church. Contact him at Robert@bfac.com.

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➺money matters by CHRISTIAN CARRICO

Don’t Let the “Bait Fish” Affect Your Portfolio On a recent visit to Panama City, Florida, I had the opportunity to explore a sunken Navy hovercraft, while scuba diving. The wreck was approximately 75 feet underwater. The craft was rectangular in shape, measuring 100 feet long and 48 feet wide, and the dive boat had tied onto one corner of the wreck. The dive site was surrounded by all types of different fish and provided plenty to see. Having exhausted two-thirds of my air supply, I followed the proper protocol and went where I thought the anchor line was to begin my ascent to the surface. To my surprise, I could not see the anchor line, even though visibility was over 50 feet. Instead, I found a swirling mass of bait fish, so thick you could not see past them. Assuming I had gone to the wrong corner, I traveled to the other end, no anchor line; to the next corner, no anchor line; to the last remaining corner, still no anchor line. Now, very concerned, I tried the initial corner one more time and there was the anchor line, minus the bait fish. Realizing I had allowed myself to be distracted by the fish, I began my ascent with less air than I preferred and some unnecessary stress. Experiences like this happen with investing as well. Instead of bait fish, investors face a number of risks and events that can affect their portfolio and distract the investor from achieving their long term goal. Currently, there is no shortage of events to cause an investor concern. Whether the fiscal crisis in the Eurozone, the heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, a slowing China, or Japan facing another recession (while they continue their decade’s old struggle to emerge from their own fiscal crisis,) risks exist from all corners of the globe. Here at home we have many issues of our own to address. Regardless of the outcome of the election, whichever candidate wins, and no matter which party controls Congress, issues such as high unemployment, a stagnant economy, expiring tax cuts, mandatory spending cuts, and a population becoming more reliant on entitlements, will control the headlines for the foreseeable future. There is no question many problems exist and will continue to exist. Investors can understandably become focused on such events; so much so that a rational individual might decide that now is not an appropriate time

56 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

to invest. However, deciding to remain on the sidelines, while these issues work themselves out, would have meant forfeiting gains of 10% in the Dow Jones Industrial Average through the first three quarters of the year. It is important to understand the impact that various events can have on a portfolio, but it is equally important to not become fixated on any one particular issue. While aware of the larger macro issues, many investors ignore other components that can have a negative impact on their return. A concentration in one single security or industry can be rewarding in the glory days, but devastating when things don’t go well. Fees and expenses are often overlooked, even though they directly affect returns. Fully understanding the fees and expenses an advisor and/or an investment charge is important to know and understand because, in some cases, they can eclipse 3% or more of the value and, in some cases, require the investor to be more aggressive than they would typically be simply to recoup the fees. Taxes, and their effect on capital gains and dividends, are often overlooked. A short term gain in a security can be greatly reduced if the effects of taxes are not taken into consideration. Investing involves risk and no investment—whether stocks, bonds, mutual funds, certificates of deposit, or even money under a mattress—is completely risk free. Certain risks will be out of your control, while others more easily managed. The key is not to let the daily noise from the financial media, or even Wall Street, create impulsive and often wrong decisions. Investing takes time, but if approached properly, you will look back on most problems of the day as not being as bad as originally reported, and be far more financially secure in the process. Y Christian Carrico is a Principal and founding partner of Mississippi Investment Management Company, LLC, in Jackson. He may be reached at Chris@mymimco.com.

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metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 57

➺rave reviews BOOKS

The Amish Family Cookbook

Editor’s Pick

Reviewed by Susan E. Richardson

The Gaither Homecoming Bible

Fans of Jerry Eicher’s Amish fiction will want a copy of The Amish Family Cookbook, written with his wife, Tina. The book’s appeal doesn’t end with his readers, but includes anyone who enjoys the variety of Amish fiction available today or simply likes good cookbooks. The authors blend recipes, Amish wisdom, and humor into an appealing mix. A cookbook must deliver usable recipes, and The Amish Family Cookbook offers a variety from newer dishes to older, more traditional Amish foods. The “Creamy Chicken Enchiladas” were delicious, while the “Zucchini Chip Bread” was more unusual with a tang of orange and chocolate chips in the batter. For something truly different, try “Pennsylvania Filled Pig Stomach,” if you dare. The authors follow the usual pattern and divide recipes into sections. However, they give some space to grilling, which is not as common. Several main dish recipes feature recipes for venison in addition to those using beef, chicken, and pork. Eicher’s fiction titles provide inspiration for some of the recipes. In this case, the cookbook includes a brief quote to tie the two together. Amish sayings in the margins throughout provide thought and humor. Longer bits of humor here and there add extra seasoning. Several other recipes in the book will appear on my table in the future. Considering my cookbook collection, one offering several appealing new recipes is quite a feat. Whether you would like something different for your Thanksgiving table or just love cookbooks, The Amish Family Cookbook should please you.

No matter how many versions of the Holy Bible you may have on your bookshelf, you will want to make room for one more. Trust me. Gloria and Bill Gaither, legendary and beloved artists of the Christian music industry, were approached by the Thomas Nelson Bible Division, a while back, and were somewhat reluctantly convinced that this was a project worthy of their passion and creativity. They didn’t have to get very far into it before they were completely committed to the task. As the Gaithers continue to travel with the Homecoming family of singers, writers and musicians, they can look back on more than forty plus years of concerts, recording, writing and producing. So many of the original Gaither Homecoming regulars have passed away, and Bill and Gloria find themselves working with young families who are filling the shoes of those who are no longer here. It makes her keenly aware of the struggles unique to that age group. She is also a mother and a grandmother who sees a near panic among her generation that their children’s generation is not growing up with the same shared memories and values that used to be much easier to transfer. One of her hopes for this particular New King James Version, is that the inclusion of testimonies, personal reflections, song lyrics and traditional hymn lyrics, strategically placed near the scriptures that inspired them, will rekindle a hunger for the Word of God. “It is our hope that the stories and experiences we and the Homecoming family of singers, writers and musicians share will encourage and inspire others to find the Word of God to be a living, vital force in our real, walking-around lives. But most of all we hope a developing love for the Scriptures will lead those who read it to the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” The Bible is colorful; the layout could not be more pleasing to the eye, and one particular feature Gloria was quick to point out was that the inclusion of hundreds of green textboxes that present verses specifically expressing that our joy is closely related to the praise, worship, and music of the Lord. The joy of the Lord is indeed our strength in a chaotic and cynical world. Released in early October, you can find this Bible in bookstores and online. There is a free download of the book of Psalms at www.GaitherHomecomingBible.com. Check it out.

Susan E. Richardson is a writer, critique reader, and former Christian retailer with a passion for meeting people’s needs through the written word. You can reach her through her website www.nextlevelcritiques.com.

58 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

MUSIC

ANOTHER ANGEL: Local soprano’s newest album hearkens back to different era in Christian music Reviewed by Andy Stone

Being from Jackson, Mary Margaret May’s name was already familiar before I found a few iTunes tracks from her 2010 debut CD “In the Shadow of Thy Wing.” The Mississippi College graduate’s voice really took my breath away. It was soft as snow but had a clear, strong foundation, like the reverberation of a recently rung hand bell. I started buying tracks and before long I’d bought May’s first album and most of her second “Upon A Winter’s Night.” The voice was reminiscent of another pure and strong young voice, that of Welsh teenager Charlotte Church, the so-called “Voice of an Angel.” Unlike Church, whose voice and career have since succumbed to Britpop, May’s passion for sacred hymns, preference to classically scored arrangements and possession of a strong personal faith will undoubtedly find her favor and fans wherever her career goes. May admits the inspiration for her latest collection of songs, “I Asked the Lord” came from a very difficult time in her life. “I love old hymns and these are just the ones that I especially clung to during that time,” she said. “I hope that people will relate to it.” May’s first song on the album “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” transforms a tender call to repentance into a almost Disney-like waltz affair that warms the heart. Another personal favorite, “I Come to the Garden Alone” is a worshipful anthem about walking by faith and not by sight. May’s reverent arrangement of “Nearer My God to Thee,” a hymn famously played on the deck of the sinking ocean liner Titanic is also included. The title track “I Asked the Lord” echoes May’s desire to grow in faith and to seek her Savior’s face. “Twas He who taught me thus to pray,” she sings. “And He I trust has answered prayer.” “That (song) was just so reflective of what I was going through,” May said. “You ask (the Lord) to be closer to you instead of putting you through all happy smiley times. Things aren’t always great and you’re still human. That song talks about God putting you through trials to make you more like Him. That’s how you grow.” “I Asked The Lord” also includes a wonderful solo cover of “The Prayer,” a popular wedding song that showcases May’s

operatic range and ability. “It’s a difficult song,” May says. “This was a difficult album to record just because I was focusing on those emotions that I had.” While fellow Mississippian Skylar Laine is sure to make waves in Nashville, Mary Margaret May says her music is more about theology and less about superstardom. “I don’t really care if (my albums) ever go platinum,” she says. “I wanted to put out good heartfelt recordings of all these old hymns. It does not bother me if I don’t get much back in this life. It’s not about that. This is a witnessing opportunity for me. My voice is a gift from the Lord.”

James Tealy submitted by The Collective

In an industry where style typically triumphs over substance, performing songwriter James Tealy’s music is a refreshing exception to the rule. Tealy has a knack for writing about deeper things with the panache of a pop music craftsman—a rare combination that inevitably connects with listeners. A graduate of Belmont University’s Music Business program, Tealy has been a featured speaker/panelist for a variety of songwriting and music industry conferences, providing lectures, song critiques and contest judging. As a songwriter, his deep list of cuts includes songs recorded by Kari Jobe, Chris August, Matt Papa, Abandon, and more than 40 others. Tealy’s songs have been featured in both film and TV, including networks NBC, CBS, ABC Family, UPN and more. As an artist, Tealy has released 5 projects in the last 6 years and maintains a busy travel schedule of concerts, worship leadership, and teaching. In June of 2011, he partnered with touring mates David Myers and Markus Huber to record the musical narrative “Only Love” in a secluded Washington recording studio. “With these songs, I’m trying to capture a moment, a fleeting glimpse at my own journey from scars to redemption. Some songs I hear—and occasionally write—are like windows. They present some objective truth and you, as a listener, stand separated from it and look in. The songs on “Only Love” are more like doors than windows. They are an invitation to come in, sit down and join in the story.” Take him up on his invitation. You won’t be disappointed. http://www.jamestealy.com/about/ Y metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 59

NOVEMBER 2012

➺events calendar GREENWOOD November 13 The city of Greenwood is getting geared up for the Holidays with a Holiday Open House/Yule Tide Trolley Ride. The fun begins at 5:00 p.m. and last until 8:00 p.m. The trolley will be available besides the downtown merchants.

November 19

WHAT’S GOING ON

The music department of Belhaven University presents the Best of Belhaven at 7:30 p.m. at their Concert Hall located on Riverside Drive. Enjoy the most outstanding performances of the semester in one concert. Admissionis free.

November 30 Roy Martin Delta Band Festival, Mississippi’s largest and oldest parade, will make its way around the city from 4:00–9:00 p.m. Enjoy bands from all over the south, decorated floats, Santa Claus, and fireworks. For additional information, call 662-453-4152.

November 30 and December 1 Bring your blankets and chairs to enjoy The 80th Annual Singing Christmas Tree, presented at the Soccer Bowl on the campus of Belhaven University. Festivities begin at 7:30 p.m. and are the sure way to get you into the true spirit of Christmas.

December 6-8 HEARTS OF COMPASSION FAMILY 5K & FUN RUN

JACKSON November 3 Colonial Heights Baptist Church is hosting their Hearts of Compassion Family 5K and Fun Run to benefit a new ministry for orphan care. The 5K run/walk begins at 8:00 a.m. with the 1-mile fun run starting at 9:00 a.m.. Get your running shoes on to support a great cause. For complete details and registration information, go to www.colonialheights.org/hoc5K.

Parents & Kids Magazine’s Christmas Fest, a gift from Patty Peck Honda, will be held at Mississippi Museum of Natural Science with festivities sure to please the entire family. Enjoy local choirs performing Christmas carols, a ride on the trackless train, a view of the living nativity, and much more. Admission is $1 per person or $5 max per family. For additional information, visit www.parents-kids.com.

November 15 The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary presents their 3rd annual Evening with Angels at the Corps Community center gymnasium from 7:00–9:00 p.m. Talent from Ballet Magnificat and the Belhaven String Trio will be on hand to entertain the guest as well as holiday trees provided by the Junior League of Jackson. Proceeds from the event go to benefit the “Youth Programs” of the Corps Community Center. For additional information, go to mhardy218@comcast.net.

RIDGELAND December 1 The Holidays are around the corner and what better way than to join the city of Ridgeland in their annual Christmas Parade. Festivities begin at 2:00 p.m. at the Holmes Community College campus where the parade will travel through the historic Olde Town Station subdivision, Jackson Street, Sunnybrook Road before finishing back on Holmes campus.

Y 60 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

The Forgotten Carols Returning to the Southeast for a second tour of the heart-warming musical, The Forgotten Carols, Los Angeles and New York cast members of the Theos Theatricals touring company will present the contemporary story of God’s love for a broken people, at Ridgecrest Baptist Church in Madison on December 1 at 7:00 p.m. Presented by the City of Madison as part of its Christmas celebration, proceeds from the performance will benefit the Kelly/Wilbanks/Kelly Scholarship set up in memory of three University of Mississippi students from Madison who lost their lives in an accident last year. “This is the first event that we hope will draw hundreds of families in Madison together to experience the true meaning of Christmas, and we hope the musical will establish a new tradition in our community. This is a great opportunity to celebrate the closeness and the spirit of giving that exists in our community,” said Madison Mayor Mary Hawkins Butler. The production tells the story of Constance, a young nurse who sees the holidays as a meaningless distraction until she is assigned to care for an aged gentleman who believes that he has been alive for 2000 years and has met people from the Christmas story, such as the innkeeper who turned away Joseph and Mary—those who have been forgotten. As he chronicles his encounters with his “forgotten carols,” he eventually touches the part of her heart that she had long ago forgotten.

One of the appeals of the musical is the involvement of local choirs at each venue. Backing the Madison production will be the Madison Central High School and the Germantown High School choirs. For ticket information, go to www.theostheatricals.com Contact: Beth@creativepartnerspr.com 601-454-6503

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Evening with Angels INDEPENDENT CONSULTANT

PHOTO BY REBEKAH COOK

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary will be hosting their 3rd annual Evening with Angels to benefit the “Youth Programs” at the Corps Community Center gymnasium Thursday, November 15 from 7-9 p.m. Ballet Magnificat and the Belhaven String Trio will be on hand to entertain along with Holiday trees provided by the Junior League of Jackson. Local merchants will donate designer wreaths and angels for the silent auction. The night’s festivities will commence with a video honoring the angels and the people who have contributed their time and talents to benefit the community. Angel Honorees for this year include Mrs. Deborah Bryant, First Lady of Mississippi; C.J. Stewart, Wounded Warrior of C.J. Stewart Foundation; and Mrs. Tom Kelly, benefactor to the Tom Kelley Toy Shop for the Jackson Corps. For ticket information, contact Millie Hardy at mhardy218@comcast.net Y

Contact me today to place an order, host a show or join my team

(601) 896-1236 suelngunn@gmail.com www.pamperedchef.biz/suellen metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 61

➺quips & quotes

ADVERTISING INDEX ADVERTISER

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Cut out the scriptures and quotes and place them around your home for daily encouragement!

✂ “Too many Thanksgivings and Christmases are sad—but they don’t have to be— because somebody refuses to reach out a little further to forgive. Unforgiveness not only causes interpersonal conflict, but negatively impacts communities, churches, states, nations, and even international relations. But the key to joyful, happy relationships that enjoy genuine acceptance is found in one simple word: forgiveness.” – Bill Gaither

“By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” – Hebrews 13:15

“It is impossible to rightly govern a nation without God and the Bible.” - George Washington

“Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.”

– Irv Kupcine

“Sow righteousness for yourselves, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground; for it is time to seek the LORD, until he comes and showers his righteousness on you.”

– Hosea 10:12

“We often want to be called by God and then ushered painlessly into a position of service and honor, miraculously possessing the character our callings require. God doesn’t work that way. Our appointments are not about glamour. They’re about glory. God’s glory.” – Beth Moore

5208 North State Street • Jackson, MS 39206

601-982-8261 Dr. Adrian Whittington Dr. Jeb Cade Dr. Melissa McLendon OFFICE HOURS: Monday-Friday: 7:30 am - 6:00 pm Saturday: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Sunday: Boarding only 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Boarding & Grooming Services Available

62 NOVEMBER 2012 ❘ Metro Christian Living

– Beth Moore

“An optimist is a person who starts a new diet on Thanksgiving Day.”

- Ronald Reagan

NORTH STATE ANIMAL & BIRD HOSPITAL

“Sometimes we stand to learn the most about God from the situations we understand the least.”

“Nobody will ever deprive the American people of the right to vote except the American people themselves and the only way they could do this is by not voting.” - Franklin D. Roosevelt

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200 Million Flowers........................................................26 Apple Annie’s .................................................................37 Ballet Magnificat ............................................................57 BankPlus..........................................................................15 Baptist Medical Clinic, Family Medicine ......................27 Belhaven University..........................................................3 Blue Cross Blue Shield of Mississippi ...........................12 Boy Scouts of America ..................................................39 C Spire...............................................................................5 Callaway’s Yard & Garden .............................................15 Canton Academy ...........................................................35 Center for Breast Health, Baptist for Women .............29 Chimneyville Crafts Festival...........................................49 Christ Covenant School.................................................24 Christian Leaders of the Future.......................................6 Christmas on Ice by Baptist Health Systems ...............17 City of Clinton ................................................................41 Community Bank............................................................21 Covenant Caregivers .....................................................20 East Lakeland Ob-Gyn Associates, PA.........................37 Edible Arrangements.....................................................31 Energy Insulation, Inc.....................................................55 Eye Care Professionals...................................................12 First Presbyterian Day School .......................................31 French Camp Academy.................................................27 Gameroom Gallery ........................................................53 Gentiva Hospice.............................................................55 Grantham Poole Certified Public Accountants............45 Green Oak .....................................................................19 Handworks Holiday Market.............................................2 Highland Village .............................................................19 Home Instead Senior Care............................................61 Jackson Academy ............................................................2 Jackson Heart ................................................................21 Jackson Preparatory School..........................................27 Joel Clarke & Sons Jewelry...........................................37 Kids Kloset/The Kloset...................................................58 L. D. O’Mire Financial Services .....................................51 Law Firm of William B. Howell, Ltd. .............................43 Mississippi Blood Services, Inc......................................40 Mississippi Investment Management ...........................36 New Summit School ......................................................45 Novella Boutique & Salon .............................................61 O! How Cute ..................................................................28 Parents and Kids Magazine...........................................23 Pennington & Trim Alarm Services, Inc........................19 Pilates V Studio ..............................................................22 Reformed Theological Seminary...................................37 Regions Bank..................................................................29 Rugged Bliss...................................................................21 Sitters, LLC......................................................................24 Southern Accents, A Gift Boutique..............................24 Southern Farm Bureau Life Insurance Company.........21 St. Catherine’s Village ......................................................4 Sta-Home Health & Hospice.........................................23 Star 93.5..........................................................................63 Stegall Imagery ..............................................................63 Stella & Company ..........................................................31 Summit Counseling........................................................36 Sunnybrook Estates .......................................................36 The Eye Group of Mississippi ......................................55 The Inside Story..............................................................13 The Pampered Chef, Suellen Gunn, Independent Consultant .61 The Veritas School..........................................................61 The Waterford ................................................................15 ThinkWEBSTORE ...........................................................24 Tinnin Imports...................................................................9 Transformations at River Oaks Hospital .......................10 Venable Glass Services ..................................................51 Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home ...............................27 Written in Stone .............................................................53 Ye Old Lamp Shoppe ....................................................31 Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.............................................53

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metrochristianliving.com ❘ NOVEMBER 2012 63

KENNETH RICHMOND Jackson, MS

Our Inspiration...Getting Kenneth Back to Work Is your heart healthy? Call today to schedule a $30 Healthy Heart Assessment including: UÊ Ê ÊUÊ ÊV « iÌiÊV iÃÌiÀ ÊV iV UÊ >ÃÌ }Ê `Ê-Õ}>ÀÊUÊ `Ê*ÀiÃÃÕÀi UÊ `ÞÊ >ÃÃÊ `iÝÊUÊ ÊV ÃÕ ÌÊÜ Ì Ê>ÊV>À` >VÊ ÕÀÃi

Call 601-200-8000 today to schedule your heart’s checkup!

MISSISSIPPI HEART AND VASCULAR INSTITUTE Kenneth Richmond, a delivery driver, received an injury to the head requiring emergency surgery. After surgery Richmond developed blood clots in his legs causing so much pain and swelling that Richmond could hardly walk, much less work. Dr. Huey McDaniel and the vascular team at St. Dominic’s Mississippi Heart and Vascular Institute were able to quickly remove the clots. Soon after the procedure the swelling went down and Richmond was able to return to the job he loves.

SCAN THE QR CODE OR TEXT HEARTMETRO1112 TO LEARN MORE

stdom.com Skilled Hands. Compassionate Hearts.