Editorials

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Editorial by Celeste Ryan Blyden

My mother was born and bred in Brooklyn, N.Y., during the Great Depression. She often went to bed hungry and rejoiced when she was given a penny to buy an orange for supper. At 14 she was baptized into the Seventh-day Adventist Church and began a faith journey with Jesus that sustained her throughout life. She always had a sanguine smile on her face and praise to God on her lips. So, you’d never know that she buried two children, got divorced after 50 years of marriage and struggled to make ends meet.

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Editorial by Gary Gibbs

Are you interested in Bible studies?” It was a bold question for a senior member of a local church. When a salesman knocked on her door, her first response was, “It’s the Sabbath; I’m not interested.” But that morning I had preached a sermon that challenged the congregation to be bold. God used that message to spark this church member to ask the salesman if he would be interested in Bible studies.

“Actually, I am,” the young man replied.

“Would you like to go to church?” Another bold question. Was she really doing this?

“Yes, I would. Can I go with you?” he seemed sincerely interested.

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Editorial by Janesta Walker

I love people! I am fascinated by the uniqueness of each person I meet: their talents, personalities, cultures, quirks and mannerisms make each one special. From strangers in the mall or interesting characters at Walmart to family members, students, colleagues and friends—no two are alike. There are quiet ones whose depth of wisdom astounds me and bold ones whose courage challenges me. There are creative ones whose artistic expressions mesmerize me. Then there are the intellectuals whose knowledge boggles my mind and entertainers whose humor lightens my heart.

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Editorial by Andre Ascalon

On any given day, we are bombarded with information from a multitude of sources—email, text messages, television and social media sites. Sadly, too many times this barrage of information is more negative than positive. Between the increasingly common natural disasters, mass shootings, sexual misconduct of those in public office, the opioid epidemic, accidents and disturbing social and political issues, it seems like every day is a struggle to survive. Even for the most committed Christian, it can be a challenge to remain hopeful in a world that seems hopeless. But the good news is that we can.

Editorial by Terry Forde
 
The words leapt off the page from the article I was reading as if they were on fire. “We live in the most technologically connected age in the history of civilization, yet rates of loneliness are increasing” (Former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, Forbes, October 17, 2017).
 
Surgeon General Murthy is so persuaded of the impact of loneliness on our health and work that he describes it as a “Loneliness Epidemic,” strong words from a health officer with a unique perspective on the factors and issues impacting public health.