HAYWOOD COUNTY - AM I WRONG?

There are days when I think I’m too old and tired to keep doing what my heart drives me to do, but at the same time, my heart and God’s spirit keep telling me I’m wrong. I am not too old or exhausted; it’s nothing more than frustration and disappointment.

There are times when I find it in my heart to speak out on something that is wrong. I do so because I know others do not always see that wrong, feel that it’s just the way it is and must be accepted, or are totally unaware of that wrong because they are not as involved and engaged as they should be. Sometimes, what I feel I must say to make them aware of existing discourse, inappropriate behavior, or actions does not sit well with them. They believe I am just being negative and should let it go and move on. But I believe, and always have, that you must follow your instincts, heart, and your soul when it involves something you genuinely love and cherish.

I have been involved with many organizations, groups, and causes throughout my adult life. Still, of all the things I have been a part of, my love for America, the Constitution, and my Republican Party, which I know is the only party that will stand up and protect that Constitution, keeps me involved and engaged. Keeps me young and energized. Even when all seems so lost to me, and so many choose to speak out against me when I write to make others aware of realities they do not wish to know about. I believe they do so because they realize that knowing and doing nothing is wrong and would play on their conscience. They don’t want to deal with the turmoil that knowing and being faced with that reality brings about.

It is not easy at times, and at times, I question my actions and must sit down and think through what I am doing and saying very carefully. And certainly not for the first time. Fortunately, there are those in my life whom I believe in, who I trust to be wise and thoughtful, whose advice and feedback I do listen to even when they think I am turning a deaf ear to their words. I know there are times when I must accept that I am wrong and they are right, and I need to rethink my actions and words.

To succeed at anything you do, you must not be afraid to take risks and be an outsider. To make necessary changes when others prefer the status quo, you need the courage to be that outsider and take those risks. Otherwise, nothing will ever change; we will never see the opportunity to grow and prosper; and, it will just remain a broken system.

Progress and growth never come from those willing to accept and live with the failures of a broken system. Progress will only come from those with the courage and strength to fix that broken system.

I long ago learned to trust my instincts, believe in myself, and use common sense when confronted with difficult and often emotional issues or times. It is this that controls my fears of what others may think of me for standing up when doing so is called for, and being the warrior and champion needed to overcome whatever confronts me. This can also be true for anyone else.

With all my heart, I believe in America and the American dream. Because of this love for and belief in America, I must do whatever is in my power to keep that dream alive and prospering, even knowing that my part is so minuscule. I believe that it is those who have the courage to take charge of their own destiny, determine their own fate, despite the criticism they may be subjected to, who are true winners.

I was, am, and always will be a Marine, and what was burned into my brain as a Marine, especially in combat, is that I must NEVER EVER give up, especially when all seems so hopeless, because victory is always just around the corner. You just have to persevere long enough to grasp that victory, knowing the other will usually give up when they realize you will not.