In 1786 after the war with England was over, the Bishop of Asaph in England stated in parliament that the new country was the only great misery of free men left on the face of the earth.

This same year, the United States was on the verge of collapse. Some states were bankrupt. There was no cash to buy or sell. It was a waste of effort to harvest products. Foreclosures were going on everywhere. There were riots everywhere. The farmers blamed the constitution.

The people wanted to throw it out. John Adams stated that the Constitution was like one of his children. Only five states sent delegates and they each wanted separate governments. John Adams said they would not tolerate a federal government strong enough to secure life, liberty and prosperity.

To make a long story short, he wrote a book to prove that only a balanced system of government with a strong independent executive, two separate legislative bodies and judiciary could keep a republic in power. The victories he won came by printing the word and speaking. In other words, 99 percent of these men wanted to be leader or wanted it like they thought would be for their benefit, not what would get the country on its feet.

Also, the press kept the people stirred up about the work being done to form the government. They feared if they elected a president for too long term, he would try to take over. All of this had to be worked out before it was put into action. John Adams’ book worked.

They sat down and formed our Constitution like it still works today. Doesn’t it sound like our government officials are acting the same way as they did then? That’s my point. I just finished “Those Who Love”, about John and Abigail Adams. I was awed that they had all the same problems then as they do now. Daniel Webster said in 1834 “God grants liberty only to those who love it.” Most of us love our freedom but there are those who want only what they want for themselves and not what is good for our country and the people. Think about it.

Our sweet friend, Ruby Oden, fell recently. She is slowly getting better. We love and pray for her and Hubert.

Lorene Dunlap’s family met last Saturday to have lunch together. They do this often. Lorene is a great mom and a great friend too.

We were saddened by the loss of an old friend, Lavern Entrekin last week. In the 50s, when we all went to Michigan for work, she and her husband, Bill were in the gang along with us and Curtis and Mildred Wiggington, my two brothers and their wives and Mildred’s brothers and their wives. We all stuck together and did things. Through the years, we’ve more or less kept in contact.

We were glad to get to see my brother, Huston’s kids and grandkids, we haven’t seen in a while.

Journey Church had pastor appreciation day on the 30th. We enjoyed dinner and fellowship with each other. We are very proud of our pastor, Joey Coots.

We were so sorry to lose Chuck and Amanda Lunsford and family. Sunday was their last day. They moved to be closer to his job.

Journey Church had a ladies’ conference on Sat., Nov. 12. It’s was called God’s Girls United. Our own Kim Coots spoke along with Janice Rivers from Destiny in Cullman, Trisha Teal from Hartselle.

My children lost their uncle, Joel Simmons, Sr. He died Oct. 12 in Burlingtom, N.J. A graveside service was held on Sat., Nov. 12, at 2 p.m. at Mt. Tabor Cemetery.