My Hometown Faith

You know you’re caught in the rip current of people pleasing when you dread saying yes, but feel powerless to say no.”
I admit I have a problem. I am a born people pleaser.
Maybe that is why I was born a performer as well. I crave attention, applause, and approval. My audience is unseen, but God does have a front seat. 
However, as a young girl, I would set up my teen idols faces from the latest teen magazine in my living room and pretend the pictures were watching my singing and dancing performances. 
They must have loved me because of their dazzling white smiles, especially Donny Osmond!
By the time I graduated from high school, I took my faith very seriously, married and went on tour with Sound of Joy, a contemporary singing group. Performing every night, but with a true calling in my heart and it was true joy. People were watching and they were pleased. Life was good. 
Once we settled down, my husband fell into the role of Music & Youth minister. I was now playing the part of minist…

Depression is a deadly state to be in and as we have seen this past week with the death of Robin Williams, its one that we should not overlook or diminish. In the Christian community, there has been debate that Christians should not be depressed or suffer with this debilitating diagnosis. However, the bible shows many Godly heroes who suffered sadness, depression and defeat. No one should ever judge another's faith by putting their Godliness in question over depression. It is a battle of chemical makeup, situation, medication, support and prayer. There is no easy answer.

Be aware of the symptoms, in case you or a loved one becomes depressed. You may save your life or theirs.

1.Change in feelings: Persistent sad, anxious, empty mood or having a hopeless or helpless outlook on your life. Other feelings may be worthlessness, self-hate, or inappropriate guilt.

2.Lost interest: Experiencing a loss of interest or withdrawal from activities such as hobbies, sports, sex, and social gatheri…