While Lee Greenwood’s words, “I’m proud to be an American” ring in my ears,   Kate Smith’s, “God Bless America” rings in my heart. We, the Baby Boomers have been blessed to experience a love for our country, to embrace our precious faith, and remember a different, slower time.

I pondered writing this year’s Jimerson Letter.   2020 has pushed us into uncharted territory laced with fear for many, while loss has left many with sadness and a new normal. Anger, frustration and uncertainty have become a common bond circulating in and out of hearts and homes.

Yet here we are, navigating day by day through the chaos of opinions and changing circumstances.

I can only speak from my perspective and what I’ve learned from this year.  I’ve slowed down; read more; turned off the television and distanced myself from social media.  Masks and social distancing are not easy for me and to be authentic, I do not believe in any of it.

I pray; a lot. I’m called to pray as I think many of you are. Maybe we finally hear the Father clearer; not sure but prayer is my go-to. We all have a go-to and Jesus is mine. I’m sticking to Him like glue! He can walk on water; I can’t; but I’ve felt His hand pull me up and out more times than I can count. I’m a better listener than I was a year ago; God is always speaking but not sure I was always listening. I am now.

When Mr. Covid showed up unannounced and uninvited, I had my yearly doctor appointments scheduled.  While walking through the parking garage, hospital corridors, elevators, and sitting in waiting rooms the fear element was already rising.  I quietly and carefully reminded people that God did not give us a spirit of fear.   Each time I was met with a simple, “Thank-you, I need that,” and often tears and hugs.  From that day on, opportunities allowed me to encourage and sometimes pray for people. One of my doctors closed the door and asked me to pray for his family.

Maybe we The Baby Boomers were made for such a time as this; we’ve been given a platform to live and share our faith.  Our younger generations are hopefully watching and listening.

When our church doors closed, The Church became wherever our steps take us.  As Americans, we are resilient. As Christians, we are endowed with the Holy Spirit. This is not a time to wither and withdraw but to let our light shine with the courage of a David, the vision of Habakkuk, the strength of an Esther, and the ability to believe like a Moses and Joshua.

When your mountain seems overwhelming, remind your mountain who your God is.

Remember your blessings; and continue to enjoy your families.

Love to you all.

Phil & Kathy

Happy Birthday Jesus

Let 2021 come quickly!!