Dear Supporter and Member:
Time for Soul Searching
We all needed some Soul Searching last month. I mentioned we need to look at the rash of crimes, murders, drive-by shootings, and domestic violence going on in our neighborhoods, community, city, state, and nation.
We must agree that no one is free or invincible from what is going on, not our financial status, education, or where we live. You and I have heard the quote, "I did not expect this in my neighborhood." It's not about location; so many have taken the ostrich approach to this unacceptable crime wave and acts of violence. But, unfortunately, burying your head in the sand will not stop this threat to all of our security and desired safe community.
It is time for us to do some real Soul Searching. Yes, much of the violence results from mental and emotional issues, unsettled family issues, how some people are viewed, financial concerns, and how we are raising our children. However, in addition, we must add unequal treatment, feelings of superiority, a lack of respect, matters of the heart, and strange relationships.
We must get involved, SPEAK UP, STAND UP, AND ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY. We must become more involved with our schools and teachers. We must interact with our local police and authorities. We must listen to our children and discipline them where needed. Watch what they read, view, and whom they hang out with. We must create a better feeling of trust in the Parent/Child relationship. And most of all, using the "No" word when needed without fear "No" is also a sign of Love and Protection. In times like these, the value and power of the Church and God's presence is requested, there is no question of God's place in our lives when this need arises. Which brings me to a suggestion – Why don't we come and get active in church now before it becomes a crisis? Why not raise our children like we were raised? Why not ask ourselves whether we need to change. Ask yourself whether you need help, counseling, or support. Are you crying out in silence? Yes, I think it's time for all of us to do some Soul Searching.
Let me Hear From You, Let Me Help you get the HELP you need, Let me applaud your decision to Reach Out and Reach UP and reunite with your church.
LET US WORK TOGETHER TO MAKE OUR LIVES, OUR HOMES, OUR SCHOOLS, OUR STREETS, OUR COMMUNITIES SAFER LET'S SEARCH OUR SOULS!!!
Join us and let's promote the positive of the Great City of Pontiac!
Sincerely,
Rev. Douglas P. Jones
Chairman
The Pontiac Marketing & Promotion Bureau (PMB) is a product and project of the
