August 1, 2002 From My Heart... Do you have goals? Do you dream dreams? Some of the happiest people I know are those who, regardless of their age, continue to set goals for the future, dreaming dreams of tomorrow. Likewise, some of the unhappiest, dullest people I know are those who no longer seems to have a "zest" for life and the possibilities before them. A few years ago, in my last pastorate, I met Mr. Russell Newman, and what a delight he became in my life. Just prior to moving to Lenoir City, he came by my office one morning because he had "a special favor" to ask me. His exact words were, "Brother Jim, if you outlive me, would you conduct my funeral service?" At first, I laughed. You see, at that time, Russell Newman was in his mid-90s! Then, I quickly realized he was very serious. He does not expect me (or anyone else) to outlive him. He is a "dreamer of dreams", a "setter of goals", and he has never lost his "zest" for life and living. In my first pastorate, there was a dear lady named Mrs. Sherer. She, too, was in her mid-90s. One night she became very ill and her family took her to the Emergency Room at the local hospital. While her daughter-in-law was filling out forms, the ER doctor went into her room to ask a few questions, one of which was the name of her current family doctor. When she told him, the doctor looked bewildered, as if he had never heard the name. Upon investigation, it was discovered that her "current" doctor had passed away some 15 years before. The truth was, she had not been to the doctor in over 20 years! Yet, she was spry, healthy, happy, and full of life. She was a "dreamer of dreams", a "goal-setter", who had never lost her "zest" for life and living. What about you? Has life become dull and boring? Has fun, laughter, joy, and anticipation all but left you behind? What goals are you setting? What dreams are you dreaming? Have you lost your "zest" for life? You see, as a Christian, we have the privilege of walking with a smile on our face, a song in our heart, and a spring in our step (even if our steps are not quite as high as they once were). "But pastor, when you get my age, with all my problems, you probably won't be so positive." Possibly not, but let's not tell Mr. Newman that. He thinks that's the way we're supposed to be! God bless you. Jim Clayton, Senior Pastor