My DECA Students

by   March 8, 2025 with No Comments

By Doug Creamer

            Last week started out great. My supervisor asked me if I would do a presentation for our precollege students. She wanted me to teach them how to present themselves when they go into a group setting. We called it, “how to work the room.” It was a lesson on how to dress, smile, shake someone’s hand, and participate in a conversation. I had a great time presenting to the students.

            I left that presentation and went to Greensboro, where I helped with the officer elections at the State DECA competition. There were 37 students running for 6 offices. The competition was going to be intense. Each year when it is over my hope is always renewed in our future. These students demonstrate an understanding of the responsibility of leadership. They know that true leaders are called to serve, not be served.

            I am always given an opportunity to talk with the candidates for a few minutes. I tell them about my experience running one of my students for state office. My student was edged out in one of the closest races I know about in NC DECA history. I also share a story that I am familiar with of a young man who ran for a National DECA office and won.

            I help with administering the test and the interview process. A committee of about 8 students interviews the candidates to determine if they will be eligible to be on the final ballot for their office. It is a tough interview and the students on the committee give each candidate a fair evaluation of their performance. Seeing both the candidates and the committee members, who are all students, acting so maturely strengthens my faith in the future of our country.

            I came home riding on the clouds. I shared the evening and my special day with my wife. I had plans to retire early after such a full day. I took a moment to check my social media, only to discover that a former student had posted that he had said good-bye to his cousin. I became alarmed because I taught his cousin earlier in my career. I desperately looked through the posts for some confirmation about the meaning of his post. Sadly, I discovered that his cousin, my former student Chad Winebarger, had passed away. My heart was broken! I wrote a note expressing my sorrow to my former student.

            Chad and his cousin Ike were both in my class at Elkin High School. They were active members in my DECA Club and competed in competitions.  Chad, Ike, and four of their friends made it to the National Competition in Denver, Colorado. My wife and I chaperoned these six guys on one of the best trips I have ever taken.

            The six guys pulled a number of great pranks on my wife and me. They gave us memories for a lifetime. They were the most respectful & polite group of guys, who kept us laughing the whole trip. They all won proficiencies at the National competition.

            Chad was a tennis star in high school who continued his winning streak in college. He was a smart and respectful young man. He went on to become an attorney in Charlotte, fighting for people who had been hurt on their jobs. He was a young man of strong moral character. He leaves behind a wife, two children, a loving family, and at least one proud teacher.

            My supervisor asked me if I would do the presentation I mentioned earlier for our evening precollege students. I hit on two things heavily: character and kindness. When we consider our legacy and how people will remember us, people will remember how we treated them. People will remember the way we acted and our behavior. They will remember if our words were kind and filled with compassion and understanding. People never forget those who are kind and generous. Generosity can include our money, our kind choice of words, our time, our attention, which includes listening, and our warm smile.

            I want to encourage you to live each day as if it were your last. Treat people in your life with love and dignity. Make sure your family and friends know how much you love and appreciate them. Remember that kindness is worth more than money. I want to be remembered as someone who cared about the people in my life and that people knew that I was there for them. If the world had more Chad Winebargers, more DECA State officers, more people who were filled with love and kindness it would be a wonderful world. Rest in peace, Chad.

Contact Doug Creamer at PO Box 777, Faith, NC 28041or doug@dougcreamer.com

Reading Old Reading New

by   March 7, 2025 with No Comments

By Roger Barbee

When younger, I never paused long enough to re-read a book because, charged by my youthful ignorance, I felt the need to rush on in an attempt to learn as much as possible. After all, as a child from the Mill Hills of North Carolina, I was a late starter and felt a strong need to catch up;  but recently I decided, for some unknown reason,  to re-visit some of my earlier, favorite reads. The first one that I removed from my library shelf holding special books was, All the Strange Hours, The Excavation of a Life, the autobiography of Loren Eiseley.  I was not disappointed in my re-reading and found much that I had forgotten and late in the book I read  Eiseley’s words that caused me to feel better about my decision. He writes in Chapter 23, The Coming of the Giant Wasps, “I  was getting old enough to want to rethink what I had learned when I was younger,” and “I have come to believe that in the world there is nothing to explain the world.” Perhaps those words resonate because they are late in the book, as I write, but nevertheless, I felt a bit of validation, and no less from such an intellect.

Having finished Eiseley’s great book, I must choose my next re-discovery. The  paperback copy of Parallel Lives, Phyllis Rose’s grand examination of five Victorian marriages draws my attention, and I note that this copy is one purchased to replace the fine hardback that has gone the way of several books-given away or loaned to a forgetful friend. It carries no marks of mine, so it sits, waiting to be read as a new copy and studied.

However, because a sister and dear friend are engulfed in their own choice—how to live as they fight their personal cancers- I wonder if I should explore once more a well-worn hard back, Intoxicated by my Illness, which was published two years after the death of its author, Anatole Broyard. I thumb through the copy, seeing my margin tics and underlining and wonder if examining Broyard’s words will enable me better help my sister and friend? I think it may when I read this un-marked sentence of Broyard: “The important thing is the patient, not the treatment.” I may not re-read the book just now, but I’ll remember his wisdom as I try to form feeble words for her and him as poison cocktails are pumped into their bodies.

While Broyard writes of life and its shared end, Patrick Lane in What the Stones Remember, writes in this memoir how he, at the age of sixty,  spent his first sober year in his British Columbia garden. It would be easy to write that Lane’s garden is simply metaphor, but he writes, “My garden is a living place, not just a showroom for flowers and plants.” His memoir offers a poet’s prose examining life and how it should be lived. A good re-read for sure.

Yet across the room are two shelves from which several books, fiction and non-fiction, call. One that I used to teach to high school juniors and seniors is A Gathering of Old Men, by Ernest Gaines. The novel recounts the story of a sheriff who, upon arriving at the murder of a white farmer at his father’s Louisiana sugar plantation, encounters a young white girl, over a dozen old, Black men holding ancient shotguns, and a murder to solve. Over the course of the novel the reader hears the story of each of those old men that explains why he is the one who shot the young overseer. In an era when White Privilege is denied, it seems like a good time to re-visit Gaines’ searing story.

Not wanting to seem like a literary prize that publishes a long or short list, I will cease my ramble around my modest shelves. However, this musing has helped my decision. Eiseley gives good advice, and I will heed his words. I will, for the first time in my reading life, read two books simultaneously—one an old favorite and a few ones that are unexplored. Well, simultaneously is not quite correct: I will spend most of my time with the favorites and sprinkle in the new ones. After all, Eiseley warns that no explanation is to be found here, but I will enjoy the journey into what Rufus Jones describes as “the awe and the wonder of the beyond.”

Catawba Runner Among Nation’s Elite

by   March 6, 2025 with No Comments

By David Freeze

Catawba College track and field senior Winfred Porter has garnered national attention by qualifying for the USA Track and Field Indoor Championships in Staten Island, N.Y. Porter, from Loxahatchee, Florida, will compete in the 60-meter dash after running 6.71 seconds for the distance. There are 21 entries at the Ocean Breeze indoor track facility that includes other top college and professional athletes including an Olympic medalist.

Porter’s event will be shown on NBC Sports. He is scheduled to run his preliminary event at 1:19 p.m. on Saturday with the finals set for 2:54 p.m. at the Ocean Breeze indoor track facility. Jason Bryan, Catawba’s head coach for track and field/cross country, said, “We want to get this out there and let people know. This is huge for Winfred, our program and Catawba College.”

Back home, we have just worked through another cold snap with some winter weather this past week. Here are some great reasons to continue to run or exercise outdoors during the winter. Cold weather makes for better endurance, but we have to remember that hydration matters just as much in the winter even though we don’t always think as often of drinking water. I can tell on my early morning runs that heat and humidity are just a fleeting memory, or a future problem. A good chilling walk out the door makes for quicker starts and better cardiovascular output, along with the ability to work out longer. I have added distance to many of my runs recently.

Better sustained energy levels are another benefit of the cold weather. Cold air can also improve oxygen uptake which improves performance. In fact, you’ll soon realize that the workout begins to provide comfortable warmth if dressed properly. In winter running, a good rule of thumb is to dress as if the temperature is 20 degrees higher than the actual air temperature. On most days, unless wind is a big factor, you will still warm up and sweat some but not overly so by following this formula. You’ll likely burn more calories due to a higher metabolic rate.

Exercising in the cold makes for better immunity during cold and flu season. Moderate cold-weather running can reduce the likelihood of respiratory infections otherwise.

Cold-weather running or walking also aids in improved mental health as it has been shown to alleviate depression and anxiety. Running in general has long been called the best free mental therapy available. Endorphins released during the cold improve mood and focus, especially since the body isn’t having to work to battle heat and humidity. Persevering through less-than-ideal conditions in training can prepare you to cope with any forecast come time for your next workout. It is easy to get a sense of being mentally tough with a can-do attitude and a burst of confidence from conquering your own hesitation to do the workout that afterwards makes you glad you did.

Midday cold-weather exercise will add to the absorption of vitamin D, a nutrient that most of us need to supplement during the winter and one that can be a difference maker in mood and overall wellness.

Once the run or other exercise is over, the effects of the cold weather effort will aid in reduced inflammation and improved recovery, allowing for less muscle soreness and the need to plan easy days.

The upcoming beginning runners class begins on March 11 at the Salisbury P.D. at 6 p.m. Sponsors are Salisbury Parks and Recreation, Salisbury Rowan Runners, Novant Health and the Salisbury Police Department. Our next race locally is the Mt. Hope Church Run for Missions 5K and Fun Run at Salisbury Community Park on Saturday, March 29. Look for more information on these and other upcoming events at www.salisburyrowanrunners.org.

Gotta Run: Catawba runner among nation’s elite; good reasons to exercise in the cold

Lynna’s Letter “F”

by   March 5, 2025 with No Comments

By Lynna Clark

“For God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” -2 Timothy 1:7

I used to live in fear. Even though I knew the Lord, I allowed fear to control me in every aspect of my life. Eventually I went to counseling and a very wise man pointed out this verse. For if fear is not from God, then where was it coming from? Was it of my own making? Or maybe the very pits of hell.

Hebrews 2:15 reveals that when Jesus died for us, He set us free from the fear that has kept us captive all our lives. Finally it dawned on me. Why would I choose to be a slave to fear when Christ has set me free?

Fear is a stalker and can easily rob us of rest. Instead let’s choose faith: the confidence that God truly has our best interest at heart. According to our verse for today, that is also the key to a sound mind. Wouldn’t that be nice!

God’s Ways are Amazing

by   March 4, 2025 with No Comments

By Ed Traut

1 Samuel 17:50  So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.

  • Without a sword – not with conventional methods or the expected tools or weapons.
  • So often, God will do things beyond our comprehension just to show that He can.
  • We cannot depend upon our natural resources or strengths.  We look to God.  He may use what we have, but He certainly has resources we can’t dream of.

Prayer:  Lord, how grateful I am that I can look to You and not have to understand or even ‘work it out’but know that You have a way and You will give me victory in any way You choose, You will break through for me.  I bless You today.  Amen.

Ed Traut
Prophetic Life

Revolving Doors

by   March 2, 2025 with No Comments

By Ashlie Miller

What comes to mind when you envision a revolving door? For many, these doors are portals, evoking childlike wonder – well, unless you are an impatient business person needing to get into or out of your building and get stuck in one in such awe.

Or your mind could go to something more jaded, considering the many businesses whose employee retention looks like an ever-rotating system of revolving doors. Gone are the days of young employees entering a small business and staying with a sense of loyalty and hope of slowly moving up the ladder. Today, any discomfort or challenge is reason enough to leave even a good company.

Many times in life, we often look at proverbial closed doors as securely locked, vaulted doors that prohibit future access. How frequently have you encountered a young, green student considering a college, a job opportunity, or an internship who sounds dejected because currently all positions are filled? It happens more frequently than likely expressed. But wisdom and time remind the seasoned that often spaces open up – someone’s life drastically changes due to a death in the family or an illness, a better opportunity presents itself for them, or they are not a good fit for an establishment. The list can go on with the vast number of situations that are unique to each individual. The persistent young heart sees these once-closed doors for what they are – a revolving door of opportunity. 

It is not limited to the young either. Even this week, I had a relaxed meeting with a friend sharing the blessing of an ideally suited job that blessed her family and became available to her because a spot opened up – one that seemed securely locked in for another. After months of thinking the door was closed, she felt a nudge to pursue the position. A revolving door made space for her. 

Are you feeling dejected because the path that seemed so sure for you seems blocked? Perhaps God is working in the life of the person currently occupying your seat. They have a journey, as well. While I am not suggesting that you pray they are fired or something bad happens to them, perhaps you can pray that God’s will be done in their life and yours. Pray they can see where God is leading them or whether or not they are suited for the position or path. Pray that the one over the position (an employer, a guide, a trainer, etc.) can quickly assess this person and their gifting and challenges and how they fit within the company, ministry, organization, or team. 

Do you see the dimmed eyes of a once-hopeful pursuer of a dream? Encourage them to keep dreaming and practice the art of persistence and growth. 

The door may be revolving.

Ashlie Miller and her family live in Concord, NC. You can email her at mrs.ashliemiller@gmail.com.

Peace & Rest

by   March 1, 2025 with No Comments

By Doug Creamer

            I sat outside and ate my lunch today. A week ago we had snow on the ground. I have heard it said so many times, if you don’t like the weather in NC then give it a couple of days and things will change. The only time I don’t think that is true is during summer. We can have some long streaks of hazy, hot, and humid weather.

            I enjoyed last week’s snow. My fellow snow-lovers got to enjoy watching it fall on two different days. Others were glad at how quickly it was gone. I went out for two walks while it was snowing. One of the things I love is how peaceful it is when it is snowing. The snow muffles sound and creates a beautiful bubble of peacefulness.

            The truth is my plate was feeling a bit full the last couple of weeks. I was constantly watching the storm’s progress on the weather models. I was preparing for some speaking engagements in the community. I was trying to get extra things done around the house. I wasn’t getting proper rest or exercise. I was beginning to feel a little anxious. 

            Being enveloped in the peacefulness of that snowfall calmed my mind and spirit. I was so happy to see the snow. My friends and family were checking with me to make sure it was snowing at my house. My joy was overflowing. The snow reduced my anxiousness and helped to restore my peace.

            I took some pictures of the snow. I loved seeing the flowers poking through the snow. Our daffodils weren’t blooming in the snow, but they sure are putting on a show today. I have some other spring bulbs that are budding. The pansies and violas look great. I guess I am feeling torn by the desire to see more snow and the hope of watching spring unfold and bring its beauty. I know most people are looking forward to spring.

            I have been thinking about the peacefulness I experienced walking in the snow. We live in a loud world. Cars and trucks are humming down the road. There is the sound of lawn mowers and leaf blowers. There were some chainsaws running in our community after the recent storms. There always seems to be noise and distractions. On top of everything else, our thoughts can clamber for attention, disturbing our peacefulness.

            I find myself hungry for the peace that surpasses all understanding. The troubles and problems of this world ebb and flow in our lives like the waves on the shore. When a wave of problems rolls in what do we do? We can all feel overwhelmed by life’s problems. We can even find ourselves wondering where this elusive peace can be found.

            I believe part of the problem is that we are looking to ourselves to solve life’s problems. While God does expect us to deal with life’s issues, He wants us to look to Him for wisdom and guidance. This is where it gets sticky. We have to learn to trust Him. His solutions are not the way we would handle them. His ways are not our ways. The peace we are looking for will only come when we are willing to lay down our ways and walk in His.

            Our lives are His. Our homes are His. Our cars are His. Our kids are His. Our church is His. Our jobs have been assigned to us by Him. All our money is His. When we begin to see that everything in our lives, including our schedules, belongs to Him then we can turn all those things over to Him. He will direct us. He will guide us. He will watch over us. He will help us find peace even when circumstances seem impossible because we can trust that He is in control.

            If you find yourself lacking peace of mind, I want to encourage you to run to Him, seek His face, and give everything to Him. We can live in peace in spite of our circumstances if we will trust Him with every area of our lives. Don’t think that I have this mastered, I find myself struggling too. I want to live in His peace, but I find the world crowding in. The peacefulness I experienced while walking in the snow stirred this desire in me that I know He will satisfy. When we choose to walk with Him and follow His leading we will discover His peace. In the good times and when problems are rolling in, we can live in His perfect peace.  

Contact Doug Creamer at PO Box 777, Faith, NC 28041or doug@dougcreamer.com

Just Dust

by   February 28, 2025 with No Comments

By Lynna Clark

“The Lord is like a father to His children, tender and compassionate to those who fear Him. For He knows how weak we are; He remembers we are only dust.” -Psalm 103:13,14

Sometimes we get the impression that God is a demanding old grouch who expects too much from us. This passage sure does make me happy. He knows how very weak I am. He knows what I’m made of. And it is not rainbows and sunshine. He knows because He made me. I am just dust. So any good thing I accomplish in my life is a joy. For how much expectation would He place on dust?

God’s Good Plan for Us

by   February 28, 2025 with No Comments

By Ed Traut

1 Thessalonians 5:9 For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

  • God has always had an amazing focus and plan for His church.  
  • It is and was not God’s plan for us to suffer or go through difficulties, but rather be victorious, because of the price Jesus paid.
  • This salvation that Jesus paid such a dear price for compares to nothing in this world.  It is the most amazing gift of God ever.

Prayer:  I lift my hands to rejoice and worship You for this wonderful salvation that You have given to me.  Help me to share it today with someone that they may hear the gospel and receive eternal life.  I praise You Lord that I can expect blessing and Your favor each day.  Amen. 
 

Ed Traut
Prophetic Life

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