I have been contemplating about this column throughout the week, and it sort of saddens me for some strange reason. But I guess some things have to be done, sometimes time and circumstances dictates agenda, whether we are ready for them or not… so I will just put it in God’s hands.

I have done the best of my abilities to service this “Small town with the big heart” for the past few years or so, and it has been a privilege to do so. I have met many citizens who have made an impact on my life, as well as my columns. I feel like Donald Goines right about now. For those who are not familiar with him, he was a self made writer. he grew up in the ghetto, and to escape it, he joined the military. While in ‘Nam he became a junkie, and remained one after getting out. He started writing, and he wrote until his death. Eddie Stone wrote a book about him in 1995 named Donald Writes No More. Donald and I had a lot in common, my gift for writing was always in me although I was afraid of it because I had no clue really what writing was. That’s why I am greatly indebted to Paul Terry for his patience, guidance and his teaching that has made me a better writer. I thank him for the opportunity and I will carry those skills and the knowledge with me always.

Many of you have given me suggestions, ideas, and encouragement throughout my years here and I appreciate it, and I thank you all. We all know that we are not always going to please everyone, but if something I have written helped someone, encouraged someone, are brought them closer to God, then I feel I have done my part. If I have offended anyone or caused any harm, I apologize and I have asked God for forgiveness and shed tears through my columns and poems. I will continue to write when I have the opportunity, but it is sad for me to say that this, at this point, anyway, will be my last column. My health issues will no longer allow me to write. My plan is not God’s plan, and I trust Him, and I have no idea what the future holds for me, health wise or even in terms of writing. I will keep this community in my prayers as always and I hope that you all will find ways to unite, grow and prosper. Put God first, trust Him, and believe. He has bestowed His grace and mercy on all of us, and we are here for a reason. May He continue to smile on you all.

Mercy is God withholding from us what we deserve. Grace is God giving to us what we do not deserve. Mercy closes the door to Hell. Grace opens the door to Heaven. Thank you, Mrs. Hazel Canady, for the insight. Thank you, sister Edna Muse, you have truly been an “Earth Angel”.

I have enjoyed my experience at The St. Pauls Review, and through it, my community. My time here has expired, and like Donald, I write no more.