Being Authentic

When my dad was alive he preached to us to always show our love and respect for each other while we are here. Never let a day go by without them knowing they are loved and cared for. How much more joyful our lives would be if we stopped and took the time to think of others before ourselves.

I attempted to send Christmas cards out this year but something in my heart stopped me. I wanted to send a letter to all that have entered my life to let them know each of them were valuable to me for one reason or another.

To those that I may have offended, understand it was not intentional but at times may have been thoughtless. Please forgive me. My fellow parishioners at St. Agnes, I thank God every day for placing me in this church and having you in my life for support, love and comfort. Fr. Kurtz and Mary Jo I am eternally grateful that you are in our "home" at church. Highlands County has been good to our business and words can't say enough how much it is appreciated these past 50 years. My family, I thank God every day for each of you, my life has come full circle because of your existence and I am grateful.

How much more enriched our lives would be if we focused more on taking the time for the little things of loving and caring towards others. Please make that your Christmas present to all that enter your life as I hope I can do better on it myself.

Florence Cooper
Sebring