WELCOME
Dear Readers,
Welcome to the third edition of our magazine for this year, marking another milestone in our ongoing journey of over 13 years in production. As we reflect on our enduring commitment to delivering compelling content, we are filled with gratitude for your unwavering support that propels us forward into the next 13 years and beyond.
In this edition, we delve into the courageous journey of Ce Ce, who bravely battled and triumphed over the challenges of breast cancer. Her story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. We hope her experience resonates with those who are navigating similar struggles and provides solace and encouragement along their own paths.
Additionally, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Liliana Yee, a seasoned expert in real estate, as she shares invaluable insights on how to turn your dream of owning a home into a reality. With her expertise and passion for helping others, Liliana empowers readers with practical advice and guidance, illuminating the path toward achieving one of life’s most significant milestones.
As we embark on this edition, we invite you to immerse yourself in the stories, insights, and perspectives shared within these pages. May they ignite your curiosity, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire you to embrace each moment with courage, determination, and gratitude.
Warm regards,
Thomas Corbin
EDITOR
THOMAS CORBIN JOURNALISM
MARY YVETTE SEABRONE
THOMAS CORBIN
LISA CORBIN ART DIRECTOR
THOMAS CORBN
LISA CORBIN PHOTOGRAPHY
PARAGON PUBLISHING SALES
THOMAS CORBIN DISTRIBUTION CORDINATION
ERIC “ET” TUCKER
FOR MORE INFO ON ADVERTISING, SUBSCRIPTIONS OR WHERE TO PICK UP EACH ISSUE PLEASE CALL 757-348-6636 OR EMAIL> THOMASCORBIN@OUTLOOK.COM.
Ariel (Lawrence) Sarpeh was first diagnosed with type 1 diabetes right before her 16th birthday - a realization she describes as being both intimidating and clarifying. “At first, I thought ‘OK, I got this. It’s relatively straightforward and I am a good student. I just have to remember that my doctor told me to be mindful of my blood sugar and what I consume,’” Sarpeh explains of her early years living with type 1 diabetes. “It wasn’t until much later that the reality of type 1 diabetes really set in.”
incidences of the disease among people under the age of 20 in the U.S. between 2002 and 2015 were among non-Hispanic Blacks (2.7%). Also compelling, non-Hispanic Black children under the age of 18 specifically were found to have higher instances of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) at diagnosis, compared
Sarpeh had no family history of type 1 diabetes and no one in her circle of friends had it, either. So, like many, she turned to the internet for information - and for connection. However, as a Black woman, Sarpeh often struggled to connect with people who she could truly relate to and who could empathize with her experience. “I noticed there weren’t a lot of people of color being vocal about their journey with type 1 diabetes,” she notes. “Particularly as a Black woman, I’m part of a community where type 2 diabetes is very prevalent and better understood, but I struggled to see my own story being reflected.”
While type 1 diabetes is still the most common among White people under the age of 20, it is on the rise across many age and ethnic groups. In fact, the steepest increases in annual
to other cohorts. DKA is a serious, sometimes life-threatening complication that can have a severe and sudden onset.
While type 1 diabetes can’t be prevented, it can be detected early through autoantibody screenings - underscoring the importance of disease awareness to reduce the likelihood of serious, sometimes life-threatening complications at diagnosis. This was exactly the ethos behind Sarpeh’s blog and Instagram page “Just a Little Suga’” - and why she got involved in The 1 Pledge with Sanofi.
As Sarpeh mentions, “I knew I wanted to tell my story as a Black woman with type 1 diabetes and speak out about the importance of disease awareness. While I was fortunate to recognize my symptoms early, more must be done to reach Black and Brown communities that are often overlooked, especially when it comes to
type 1 diabetes.”
Now is the time to work to increase the understanding of type 1 diabetes in minority populations by underscoring the importance of early screening for the disease. “Information is a tool of empowerment,” Sarpeh explains. “By spreading the word about type 1 diabetes screenings, we can help others gain early insight into their disease, allowing them time to better prepare and make well-informed choices about how to proceed.”
To learn more about how you and your family can get screened for type 1 diabetes, visit The1Pledge.com.
The year is 2013, the place is Portsmouth, Virginia where this story began with a man who is about to embark on a journey parallel to Malcom X’s pilgrimage to the Holy City of Mecca. This man’s name is Ill. Maurice Wiggins 33°. At times, he would lay awake at night and envision how he could get his Masonic brothers and sisters from near and far to bond together in unity and love in one location. You see, he has a strong passion for the Order; to lead, teach and protect his brothers and sisters. This similarity is indicative of a silverback gorilla; in Hollywood movies, silverbacks have been characterized as ferocious and aggressive animals however, they are usually calm and have a peaceful social life and rarely show aggressive behavior; unless threatened. Ill. Maurice Wiggins, 33° the leader, has a shy and gentle disposition despite his power; he protects those he cherishes from predators to the extent of sacrificing his own life.
As he set out on his journey to establish his jurisdiction, Mecca Supreme Council, it required dedication, commitment and a strong support system. On January 3, 2014 his vision became reality. The body fulfilled their obligations and focused on serving the community and to further educate on the principals of freemasonry and love. Over time, we have seen him tested both physically and mentally. As a family, we’ve
loved, we’ve lost and we’ve faced many challenges all without wavering. Along the way a lot of our friendships changed; choices were made that led some to travel on a different path in life; some relationships grew and blossomed beautifully where others drifted apart and the gap may be just too big to bridge.
However, his trials and tribulations on this road to Mecca are detailed with an emotional richness rarely seen. To quote the German philosopher, Friedrich Nietzsche, “That which does not kill us, makes us stronger.” The scale of events that have unfolded will make even the most jaded onlookers gasp with astonishment. There’s no standard to determine how far a person would go to achieve their goals and dreams.
As we approach another year in Mecca, we reflect on how we began this journey hand in hand, side by side, in search of more knowledge in freemasonry not knowing where the road would lead. That road led us to 4711 George Washington Highway, Portsmouth, Virginia 23702, home of Mecca Supreme Council.
Overall, this journey has become more than we anticipated but we stood unraveled and united as brothers and sisters. The path that has been laid before us is clear and wide. Forever bonded by our obligation, we shall continue to walk these miles together. As we are taught to make good men better and to love one another, the following scripture describes the journey to Mecca. “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:7
Think of local businesses that feel connected to your community. What comes to mind?
Perhaps a retro diner displaying photos from the town’s earlier days, or a sports bar decked out with memorabilia from the local team? What gives a business a distinctly local flair, and how can you infuse this essence into your own business?
For an effective way to transform a business space, consider starting with one of the largest design opportunities: the walls. Walls often offer the largest amount of surface area in a business space and utilizing them properly can have a huge impact. Wallpaper murals are large-scale wall coverings that are customizable in design. Whether you run a hotel, restaurant, bar or any other business, here are some ways incorporating local-inspired art can make a significant impact on your interior decor and customer experience.
Why local murals matter
Locally inspired wall decor is a trend that’s not only visually striking, but also embraces a business’s location. By opting for these murals, you’re not just adorning walls; you’re curating a personalized experience. Visitors appreciate the authenticity and connection that local flair brings to a space. Celebrate your area by adorning your business with images that showcase the local culture, history and identity. Whether it’s iconic landmarks, historical events or the vibrant local scene, these engaging design elements celebrate the essence of your area.
In a world of ever-increasing competition, businesses, especially in the hospitality industry, need to find ways to stand out and create a memorable experience for their guests. In hotels, restaurants, bars and other hospitality businesses, local murals are a game-changer. They invite guests to immerse themselves in
the spirit of the area. From showcasing the scenery to featuring local sports teams, the options are endless.
Here’s how different business types can bring local flair to their establishments:
1. Bars and clubs: Create a trendy and energetic backdrop for your venue with a local-inspired mural in a bar or nightclub. For sports bars or venues, consider featuring local sports team collages or a blueprint of an iconic local stadium. On accent walls, add displays of local memorabilia, such as jerseys.
2. Hotels or Airbnbs: Welcome your guests with inviting hotel wallpaper murals that elevate the ambiance of their stay. These can be featured in hotel lobbies, rooms and more. Local landmarks, famous landscapes, national parks and ski trail maps celebrate the best parts of your hotel’s locale. When selecting furniture, consider sourcing from a local designer or supplier to emphasize the local connection.
3. Restaurants: Whether you own a coffee shop, café or fine dining restaurant, murals can create the ideal ambiance, share your restaurant’s history or highlight the culture behind your cuisine. On other walls, you may want to add pictures of the owners or framed newspaper clips reporting on the business.
4. Museums, points of historic or local interest: Museums can showcase local history and culture, creating an immersive experience for visitors. Antique maps or photo murals can add a touch of historical legacy to your space. Add in framed shadow boxes to display additional local and historical items to engage visitors.
iliana Yee proudly serves as the Producing Branch Manager for Cardinal Financial, nestled in the heart of Virginia Beach, Virginia. With a career spanning over 24 years, Liliana brings a wealth of experience from her tenure at esteemed institutions such as HSBC Bank, Bank of England, and Serfinansa. Despite her busy schedule, she graciously took a moment to shed light on how she aids families in achieving their dream of homeownership.
Seven: Liliana, could you share a bit about your journey in assisting families with mortgages in Hampton Roads?
Liliana Yee: Absolutely. I’ve had the privilege of helping families navigate the complexities of homeownership for more than two decades now.
Seven: What inspired you to embark on a career as a Mortgage Loan Originator?
Liliana Yee: Well, it’s a bit of a story. With a background in finance and a genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives, I felt drawn to the mortgage industry, where I could help families secure their piece of the American Dream.
Seven: What sets your approach apart when working with clients?
Liliana Yee: You know, it’s really about putting the customer first. At Cardinal Financial, we believe in empathy and flexibility. We understand that each family’s journey is unique, and we tailor our solutions accordingly. Our commitment to attentive service and deep industry knowledge resonates with our clients on a personal level.
Seven: Liliana specializes in VA, FHA, USDA, and Conventional lending, making her a trusted advisor for military families in
Hampton Roads. What’s the typical credit score range you work with?
Liliana Yee: We’re here to serve everyone, regardless of their credit score. At Cardinal Financial, we offer solutions for clients with credit scores as low as 550 for FHA and VA loans. It’s about making homeownership accessible to as many people as possible.
Seven: How does Cardinal Financial support clients struggling with down payments?
Liliana Yee: We understand that down payments can be a hurdle for many families. That’s why we’re here to help. Whether it’s through secondary loans or personalized assistance, our goal is to make homeownership a reality for everyone.
Seven: I’ve heard about renovation loans. Can you tell us more about them?
Liliana Yee: Renovation loans are a fantastic option for families looking to breathe new life into older properties. With partnerships with Home Depot and Lowe’s, we provide financing for renovations, from materials to installation. It’s about turning a house into a home, one renovation at a time.
Seven: What other financing options does Cardinal Financial offer?
Liliana Yee: We believe in providing solutions for every need. From construction loans to manufactured homes, multi-family residences to first-time homebuyer programs, we’re here to support our community every step of the way.
Seven: Thank you, Liliana, for sharing your insights. If anyone is considering homeownership, please feel free to reach out to me at 757-348-6636 for Thomas or 757309-0995 for Liliana. We’re here to help you turn your dream of homeownership into reality, one step at a time!
L
The idea of giving your home a thorough cleaning each spring is very appealing, but can also be overwhelming. It may even seem impossible, given today’s busy lifestyles, active children - and especially pets. You may love your pets, but the fur and stains they leave behind make it even more challenging to keep your home as clean as you’d like.
To get you started, the experts at Libman Company, manufacturer of household cleaning products made in the U.S.A. since 1896, offer these helpful spring cleaning tips that can even conquer the messes your beloved pets may create.
1. Plan first
To avoid feeling overwhelmed, develop a plan that takes into account the time, energy and tools you need to get the job done. Consider setting aside a weekend or two, so you’ll have plenty of time. Divide your home into zones, addressing the most frequently used areas of your home first, like the entryway, kitchen or bathrooms. Make sure to enlist help from your family!
Pro tip: For multi-story homes, have a set of cleaning supplies/equipment on each floor, saving you from lugging mops and brooms up and down stairs.
2. Use the best tools
Trying to clean with old, worn-out brooms or mops adds time and frustration to your task. Instead, make cleaning easier with tools expertly made for the job.
For example, Libman’s PetPlus Angle Broom with Dustpan is specially designed to tackle pet hair, dander, litter box dust and tracked-in dirt. The all-surface broom fibers remove over 99% of dust, dirt and hair in one sweep, with over 137,000 6-inch-long split-tip fibers that attract and hold pet hair. Together with the 12.5inch wide dustpan with 1.5-inch built-in “teeth” to help remove hair, dirt and debris from broom fibers, this is the perfect combo to help you clean up after pets.
After sweeping, clean floors thoroughly with Libman’s Freedom Dual-Sided Microfiber Spray Mop. The dual-sided microfiber pad offers double the cleaning power, saving time and money. The removable and reusable microfiber pad is machine washable up to 50 times - reducing needless waste. The TripleGrip Microfiber absorbs and deep cleans, removing 99% of bacteria with only water. The mop’s 360-degree swivel neck lets you reach into the toughest and tightest corners, and you can use it on wood, laminate, tile, vinyl, stone and linoleum floors, choosing your own cleaning solution for the refillable tank. When done cleaning, simply remove the mop head and toss in the laundry. For carpeted floors and upholstered fur-
furniture, use a vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair. Make sure to frequently empty the canister or change the bag, as fur quickly clogs up any vacuum, making it less effective.
3. Do a quick de-clutter
It’s easier to address chores like mopping and dusting after clearing away miscellaneous items. Walk through target areas with trash/ recycling bags first, removing items that need to be discarded. Then use a box or basket to collect things that belong in other rooms. Kids can help with this task, looking for items that belong in their rooms. Before you know it, your surfaces will be clearer and ready for deep cleaning.
4. Start high
Start cleaning at the top - otherwise you could dislodge dust, pet hair and cobwebs to dirty your newly cleaned floors. For each room, tackle ceiling fans or light fixtures before walls or windows. Then clean horizontal surfaces like tables and shelves, saving floors
for last.
Once you get to the floors, you’ll be ready to put your new Libman broom and mop to work to easily remove pet hair and other debris.
5. Set yourself up for success
To preserve your newly cleaned rooms and floors, consider adding high-quality mats for inside and outside entries, easy-to-access waste bins or recycling containers and/or a basket system for items that need relocating. Planning ahead will make next season’s cleaning that much easier!
Pro tip: Designate an area for regular pet brushing (or visit a groomer), especially during shedding seasons. This can reduce the fur ending up all over your house, and will keep your pets looking and feeling great. With a solid plan and effective tools, spring cleaning can be a pleasure, and your whole family - including the four-legged memberswill enjoy the results even more.
My name is Cecelia Hill and I am a breast cancer survivor. I was diagnosed in December
2018. In October 2018 I received a call from my longtime friend. She decided to come visit me one weekend. We sat down talked and caught up on everything that had happened in the last 10 years or so. She informed me that she was going through chemo treatment for brain cancer. She had survived breast cancer and lung cancer. As she was telling me her story, I was totally shocked and as I was listening, I saw God‘s strength in her.
I knew this visit wasn’t a coincidence in November 2018. I felt pain in my right breast. I immediately knew something was wrong. I went to see my Primary
Care physician and she confirmed that it was a lump in right breast. We made an appointment for me to get my mammogram the next day. I thought I had received my annual mammogram in September. I always get my mammogram in my birthday month, however, for some reason it was missed.
The mammogram confirmed that I had not only that lump that I felt but another lump at the 6 o’clock position. Another appointment was set up to get an ultrasound and also a biopsy. My appointment to get my biopsy results was that December. The doctor wanted me to come back in on December 4th, but that was my daughter’s graduation date. She was graduating with a dual major from Virginia Commonwealth University. So I planned the doctor’s appointment after her graduation.
On December 12, 2018 I went in for my results. I reached out to my First Lady to ask if she would accompany me. She held my hand as we heard the news, Ms. Hill, you have breast cancer. I wasn’t totally shocked, but just hearing those words was enough to take the breath out of your body. God
had prepared me for this moment. How can anyone say that, but, it’s true. I remembered the words that God had spoken to me so clearly saying that he would never leave me nor forsake me. At that moment I was sure and confident that I was going to get through this. His brought my friend back into my life that October to show me His strength in her, God rest her soul.
I started my chemotherapy in January 2019. My hair started falling out three months after. My First Lady saw pictures that I had posted on Facebook with my hair in the sink. She called me and shared that she knew of a young lady who would come to my home and shave my hair.
This is how I met Lisa Corbin, the CEO and
founder of Wigs4purpose. She came to my home and immediately made me feel that it was going to be ok. She made me feel safe and reassured me that I was going to get through this with a smile. She said we are going to have fun and we’re going to make this a memorable moment where I can look back on this day. She gave me a Bible scripture. She gave me Mary Kay products amongst a few other gifts it was a pleasant experience. She invited my son to come downstairs to be with me and video me and allow him to be a part of the experience as well. She measured my head for a free wig from Wigs4purpose that she was going to make me. I was so excited. The beauty of this intervention is that I met Lisa through a mutual friend in 2017. We had all traveled together to Richmond, Virginia to see my daughter in a fashion show.
Lisa gave me instructions on how to care for my scalp during this journey. Once my hair started growing back, she measured my head for another wig. This next wig, Lisa helped me file under my medical insurance.
As soon as my hair started coming more, I started seeing Lisa at her salon, Exquisite Beauty, for my hair care. Towards the end of 2020, Lisa and I both felt it in our spirits that I needed to be a part of her ministry. It was like we heard the same message from God. In 2020, I became the Ambassador for Wigs4purpose.
Looking for the ultimate night in? Look no further than the deliciously comforting cup of ramen! Whether you’re a novice noodle enthusiast or a ramen devotee, making ramen at home is the ultimate way to create a cozy evening filled with mouthwatering flavors.
Ramen is infinitely customizable. With the right ingredients and pairings, you can upgrade your ramen experience to create a meal you won’t soon forget. So, grab your chopsticks and check out five ways you can elevate your ramen experience this winter.
1. Create a ramen tasting experience
Upgrade your ramen game by turning it into a tasting adventure. Instead of sticking to one flavor, prepare multiple flavors and styles to sample! For example, Cup Noodles Stir Fry Rice with Noodles combines timeless Asian takeout-inspired recipes like General Tso’s
Chicken, Japanese Teriyaki Chicken, and Thai Yellow Curry with bite-sized noodles and rice. For more traditional stir fry dishes, reach for Cup Noodles Stir Fry which features flavor-forward noodle selections including the vegetarian-friendly Sweet Chili, savory Korean BBQ flavor and more. Slurp through the line up and dive into a flavor journey, experiencing the unique tasting notes of each product.
2. Pair with a craft beer
For leveling up your ramen, a craft brew pairing is the perfect way to elevate your dining experience in a flavor-forward fashion. Cup Noodles recently partnered with Advanced Cicerone Mandy Naglich to pair a selection of its products with a craft beer based on their ingredients. The result - a flavor-forward Noodles + Brews pairing guide people can easily create at home. “Any eating experience can be elevated by thoughtfully pairing flavors,” said Naglich. “When noodles and craft brews come together in the perfect match, suddenly familiar flavors are revitalized into something that is memorable
and fun.”
3. Add veggies for extra crunch
What makes a truly delicious bowl of ramen isn’t just the taste. Texture also plays a huge part in your dining experience. For added crunch, set out small bowls of topping options like bok choy, bean sprouts, sliced mushrooms and onions. These veggies’ crispness provides a satisfying contrast to the tender noodles, taking your bowl of ramen to new heights.
4. Add in egg or tofu for protein
No meal is complete without protein! Pack your ramen with a protein punch by adding a soft-boiled egg or cubes of tofu. A perfectly cooked soft-boiled egg adds a rich taste, while tofu offers a plant-based protein option, adding more nutrition to your steaming bowl of noodles.
For a gourmet touch, try marinating the tofu in soy sauce or sesame oil. To save time, you can place the tofu cubes in a food container with your choice of marinade the night before. However, even just 30 minutes is enough to impart tofu with your chosen flavor.
5. Add a little bit of spice
Combat the cold weather with a kick of heat in your warm soup this season. Add a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or chili oil and a dab of spicy miso paste. You can also use spicy ingredients like chili flakes or slices of jalapeno. No matter what you choose, a little bit of spice boosts a soup’s flavor and heat to warm you from the inside out during even the coldest seasons.
Elevating a bowl of ramen doesn’t have to be complicated. Using these five simple tips, you can create a truly delicious and memorable dining experience this winter. Savor your nights and fight the colder weather with a bowl of soup that will warm your stomach and your spirits.
Are you making any New Year’s resolutions this year? If so, consider prioritizing your sexual and reproductive health. While often overlooked, they are undeniably integral to your overall wellness.
Here are five tips to guide your goals for better sexual and reproductive health this year.
1. Schedule regular checkups
Make sure that you’re on track with regularly scheduled checkups at your OB/GYN that may include things like a pelvic exam, screening for cervical cancer, testing for STDs, birth control or any other concerns you or your health care provider may want to address. This is also the perfect opportunity to ask your health care provider questions and tell them about any issues you are having - so make a list before you go so you don’t forget.
2. Understand your birth control options and how to secure them
During your routine health checkups, it’s important to keep up to date with the latest contraceptive methods and determine which option aligns best with your current stage in life and personal lifestyle
choices. Ensuring you are well-informed about birth control methods that suit you and are keeping a steady supply is especially important in busier periods filled with social engagements and travel.
3. Have a back-up plan
For those unexpected moments that catch couples off guard, Cadence OTC’s Morning After Pill provides a reliable backup for ‘oops’ moments like when a condom breaks or when protection slipped your mind.
“Prioritizing your health this year means not only having a plan, but also having a back-up plan,” said OB/GYN Nap Hosang, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Cadence OTC. “Cadence OTC is increasing over-the-counter access to safe, effective, affordable contraceptives for everyone everywhere, starting with Morning After Pill. Keeping emergency contraception on hand during this busy season can ensure you’re protected no matter what. Stocking up on emergency contraception to be able to take as soon as possible is crucial for its effectiveness.”
Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Cadence OTC’s Morning After Pill is not only a safe and high-quality option but is now available for online purchase at half the price of the leading brand- making reliable
and affordable emergency contraception more accessible at an affordable price. In addition, Cadence OTC is actively seeking FDA approval for Zena, a groundbreaking over-the-counter combination birth control pill, eliminating the need for a prescription or doctor’s visit. For more information, visit cadenceotc.com.
4. Educate yourself
Keep abreast of the latest advancements in technology, science, and medicine that impact your health. The field of medicine is always offering new insights into preventive health measures through improved hygiene, nutrition, and exercise, as well as evolving treatments for various conditions. Seek trustworthy information from authoritative sources like government health websites and platforms established by medical and healthcare organizations or academic insti-
tutions.
5. Open communication with a partner
Maintaining a healthy relationship often hinges on regular, open, and honest communication with your partner. Sharing concerns and feelings about your physical relationship can lead to improved intimacy and enhance your overall well-being.
Remember, taking good care of your overall health is an ongoing practice that can help you lead a fuller, happier, more joyful life. If something is unsettling or if there is tension between partners, communicating about those differences should be a positive experience because it offers the possibility of greater understanding and mutually acceptable improvement in the new year and beyond.
As a young Marine 42 years ago, John was stationed at Camp Elmore in Norfolk. He met Sharon through a fellow Marine. That began a beautiful journey of raising 6 kids and serving the Lord together.
It was while attending a Gospel service at a base chapel in Okinawa, Japan, that they began truly growing in Christ and learning how to serve Him. Through John’s military career, the Lord brought them to churches where they worked in many diverse ministries. They served from building projects to youth ministries and youth choir to food lines. John felt the Lord’s calling while in Jacksonville, FL. At that time, Sharon envisioned that their future ministry would be feeding people through perhaps a food truck while sharing the Gospel. After John’s retirement, God led them back to Virginia where Sharon was raised. Due to some traumatic experiences in her childhood, however, this was not where she wanted to be. But they started a Bible study in their home of about 5-10 people that kept growing to where they began renting space within a local church. Up to 40 folks were attending. John said that the members of the other church would peek their heads into their room because they could hear them praising the Lord! John and Sharon were sure that they were called to ministry.
13 years ago, they moved their church into a Newport News building beside
a men’s rescue mission. They began meeting the physical needs of those in their area, providing nonperishable food, blankets, etc. God also led them through a process of meeting the needs of young Marines and others in the neighborhood who just kept coming their way. They now also work with the USDA program at six different sites every month to serve people who pick up food. Their names are on the Food Bank website from which they get calls - John, his brother-in-law Jeff, and other church members help with those needs.
John and Sharon feel so blessed. Serving the homeless was difficult at first because they had a hard time not seeing why the people couldn’t just get a job and make their lives right. But through Faith Bible College courses, their perspective began to change. Classes such as Evangelism and Anthropology helped them see humanity differently. They began seeing the homeless as created in God’s image, having the DNA of the Father in them. This changed their whole church approach and how they thought. Through the Romans class, they were reminded not to judge because it is only God who can judge.
Sharon admits that she used to want a glamorous church where everybody came in smiling and smelling wonderful and looking good. But that is not who God is giving them! Regardless of who they are (or how they smell), their church provides breakfast for folks every Sunday during Sunday School while they teach
them the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They had seen that people often get the ‘middle of the story’, but they needed to start at the beginning with Jesus. They needed to see who He really is, the God who loves them and has saved them, not the church or who the pastors are. John knew that some folks come to get what they want and become professional churchgoers, but they really need God’s Word. So they changed their Sunday School from teaching a curriculum to studying straight from God’s Word so everyone leaves with ‘food for thought.’ Folks are responding. Some have given their lives to Christ and are continuing to grow in Him. The Baxtons share that they are learning in the process. John started understanding what a NC pastor had shared - that you can’t treat church people like you would treat Marines who did what they were told! And you can’t get out of character; you have to remain in the character of the Lord. Sharon realized her original vision of feeding people and sharing Jesus was only a partial picture - she hadn’t envisioned the details as the Lord had planned! They praise God for all the godly men and women who spoke into their lives, counseled them, and weren’t afraid to tell them the truth. Accountability is important.
Sharon has been working on a book about dysfunctional families and how you can take dysfunctional ways into God’s house without really knowing what that means. While researching, she identified the dysfunction in her
family growing up, but then realized she was bringing that into her own familyeverything had to be perfect and in its place, including the house, the kids, etc. She didn’t know that those behaviors carried their own dysfunction. She feels that through FBC, God is helping her rightly divide His Word of truth. She knows that each course has been part of God’s plan for her and, as He answers her questions about her own life, she can now share with confidence. They feel that they used to only skim the surface, but truly knowing and understanding the Bible is the greatest gift that they can give others. Christ never stops amazing them. From free bags of brand new men’s sweaters to a man in Walgreens who said, “This is on me,” John was reminded “...with love and kindness I have drawn thee” (Jeremiah 31:3). God was showing him, “This is what brings people to Me, not your preaching, but it’s the love.” They have cut out activities that were all about the passion of ministry to focus on sharing the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. Sharon’s brother Jeff and his wife Janice have been in ministry here with the Baxtons from the start. Sharon talked with Janice about FBC and they decided to take classes together. They are both on schedule to get their degrees in May
2024.
