Inside: Hoopla’s ultimate senior activity guide
P. 16-18
Aledo man honors vets by playing trumpet throughout metroplex
Adrienne Malmberg writes grants for Azle’s Servolution Network
Retired car salesman from Granbury now loads vehicles with food for the hungry
Crossword, suduko, and more
July 2023
Word list:
Bell Bottoms
Moon Landing
Civil Rights
Nixon
Woodstock
Hippies
War
Kennedy
Missile Crisis
Groovy
Peace
Rolling Stones
Beatles
Martin Luther King
Flower Power
Disco
Vietnam
Go Go Boots
Volkswagen
Elvis Tie Dye
Hip Huggers
Andy Warhol
America Bandstand
Feminism
Sergeant Pepper
L K E H K X O G P
R M J T V S V A H E G M W O L G A E
F E V K T B I M Y C K A N P W E W R
Q F H H G N C D G S S R S A M Y S W
G C J A P W E O M S F G N G L J K G
D S F E O I A R E W O P R E W O L F
Y S C P T Z F P W V R D M A L B O Y
U S I S I R C E L I S S I M V V V Z
B A N D Y W A R H O L F I Z K S I G
Z M Z M L E X J L B E A T L E S I S
L N X Y O S E N O T S G N I L L O R
L K W O R Y B M C S K W U M N H M Q
Z X W E N A D J H T L T J H E M J Z
July 2023 Volume 7, Issue 7 © 2023
Most of Bob Russell’s life has revolved around faith, family and service to his country, and the Parker County resident has certainly made the most of his 77 years on earth.
A retired lieutenant colonel in the United States Air Force, Russell is known to many of his friends as “Old Bugle Boy Bob,” a nickname he earned for a special talent that began in childhood.
“In fifth grade, I started playing trumpet, and I still play to this day,” Russell said. “I played in grade school, high school and college. And then I put the horn up for about 20 years while I was in the Air Force. When I got out, I started playing again. Now I’m playing in lots of different venues. I’m in a 20-piece jazz band, I play at the county jail, I play for church, and I play for the Christian Motorcycle Association , as well as Gideons and the Patriot Guard Riders. My music friends started calling me Old Bugle Boy somewhere along the line, and the name just stuck. In 2005, I published a Christian CD, Flying Free, which was fun.”
Russell and his wife, Judy, have been married 52 years and they have one son, Brian.
The Aledo man flew the F-15 Eagle fighter and taught flying in the T-38 Talon while in the Air Force from 1968-1988,
and then spent the next 20 years of his life working for Lockheed designing cockpits for F-16s, F-22s, F-35s, and a T-50 Korean jet.
In 2009, Russell moved to Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, where he became immersed in Christian work, running a church and ministering at jails, drug rehab programs, and the Gideons.
“I’ve always been a Christian, but I never got involved with it seriously until 2002 when I developed prostate cancer,” Russell said. “When I looked at treating the cancer, I didn’t think I would die, but if I did die, I thought that I would kind of like to know why I held the faith (denomination) that I was in. I’ve always gone to church, so I started off on a real crusade. I read everything I could get a hold of, not only on Christianity, but Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, Mormonism, and then I got more specific, and divided my studies into comparing the two Christian sects: Protestantism and Catholicism. My studies led me to get involved in teaching.”
Russell has been ministering to prison and jail inmates for more than 23 years and he regularly visits the Parker County
jail to assist the chaplain in preaching and teaching.
He is a member of the Koinonia Riders (a Christian Motorcyclists Association chapter in the Willow Park/Weatherford area), the Fort Worth NW Camp for Gideons International (the Bible-distributing organization) and the North Texas Patriot Guard Riders (in support of veteran funerals at the National Cemetery in Dallas where he plays ‘Taps’).
Needless to say, Russell enjoys being active.
“I had a good friend, my first neighbor when we joined the Air Force and built our first home,” Russell said. “He assessed my active life, ‘Russell, you were raised with both of your hands up, volunteering for everything.’ He was correct. I cannot stand to sit around and do nothing.”
Russell said these days it seems he cannot get everything done that he would like to.
“I actually find that I need 30 hours in a day instead of 24, and I need eight days a week instead of seven, but I don’t want to drop anything,” Russell said. “So I budget my time very, very closely, because every day on the calendar I have something scheduled. Then of course there’s the family, yard work and stuff like that. I try to take just one day a week
to get away from it all. That’s why I golf. I’m a horrible golfer, but I can scream and yell and chase the little white ball and beat it to death.”
Born in a town of about 10,000 people called Sterling, Colorado, Russell was actually raised in a smaller town of about 1,500 people called Holyoke, a farming community in Northeast Colorado right near the Nebraska panhandle. His parents worked for the Highline Electric Association, which provided electricity to the farmers.
Russell started working there part-time and then enrolled at Colorado State University where he began to participate in ROTC and was eventually commissioned in the Air Force.
Russell loves spending time with his family and traveling, and he said there are many parts of the world that he
has yet to see.
And at the age of 77 and being rather fulfilled in life, the Parker County man said he still has something else he would like to do.
“I’d like to write a book or two,” Russell said. “And I’ve had several times where I started to do that. I write all the time. I write for a local newspaper, I write articles for flying magazines, I’ve written Christian articles, but I’d like to write a book about facets of Christianity.
“I thought a little about writing about my prison involvement, since I’ve been so involved with that. But I’m really very comfortable in all I am doing now. I’ve been truly blessed. I have a great wife. I have a wonderful son. I’ve been able to see most of the world or a lot of the world with the service. I’m pretty content. God is good.”
Weatherford resident Dixie Ehrhorn has been chosen as Parker County’s Quilter of the Month.
As a farmer’s daughter, Dixie helped her mother by working the treadle while her mother guided the needle and fabric above. She learned to sew at a very early age and was making her own clothes by age 11, but she only began quilting in 2005 when she retired.
She’s pictured above with one of her favorite quilts, titled “My Beautiful Ladies,” which brought her honorable mention in a quilt show. The quilt was created with Dutch wax African fabric. Currently, she’s working on baby quilts, a panel quilt of all 62 national parks, and a wedding quilt. Dixie, a quilter’s guild member for many years, says the guild is “a great sisterhood. A quilter will help a quilter.”
To nominate a Quilter of the Month, email seniors@hooplamagazine.com.
Granbury resident Joy Kelly has been chosen as Hood County’s Quilter of the Month. She’s standing next to her quilt, “Radiant Exploration of My Heritage.”
Joy has been a sewer/crafter her entire life. After moving to Granbury in 2005, a friend convinced her to go to beginner quilting lessons. Quilting soon became Joy’s passion, second only to golf.
She joined the Granbury Quilters Guild, where she currently serves as president, and a couple of sewing groups in Fort Worth. In one group, she learned traditional quilting. In the other she learned more modern techniques, like coloring the fabrics with crayons. Joy loves tackling very unique patterns and ideas. She continues meeting with various groups to keep growing her quilting knowledge. She says you’re never too old to learn a new trick.
To nominate a Quilter of the Month, email seniors@hooplamagazine.com.
Long-legged and good-natured Gene Durant walks briskly into his favorite burger joint and jokes with people before filling his cup with ice and sweet tea. Gene’s broad smile and hearty laugh make him a favorite among Grumps’ waitstaff who have rewarded him a reserved seat at the bar. The nameplate reads “Gene’s Spot.”
Gene, 86, has rarely missed a day since Grumps opened 20 years ago on Highway 377 in Granbury. He arrives at 11:30 a.m. and leaves at noon, a custom from his days at Durant Chevrolet selling cars. He orders a hamburger, no fries, every time. Someone said he needs to eat more burgers because of his lanky 6-foot, 4-inch frame.
Gene’s outgoing personality bodes well for volunteer work. He and fellow Granbury Church of Christ members pick up food from grocers and restaurants and hand out the food, no questions asked, from the church’s well-stocked and refrigerated food pantry. (The Church of Christ is one of 12 pantries in Hood County.)
People from all ages drive up to receive food on Monday and Wednesday afternoons.
“I would say 90 percent of the people couldn’t get by without it,” Gene said. “They get $650 or $700 a month and that don’t go very far.”
Many are retirees recently widowed; others have lost their jobs.
Some become overwhelmed with emotion when the volunteers began bringing them sackfuls of groceries. “They’ll break down sometimes,” Gene said. “They didn’t have anything to eat.”
The COVID pandemic saw more people needing food because they lost jobs. Most of those people have found other employment and have not been back.
Gene’s been volunteering at the pantry for about 15 years. He retired from the dealership six years ago. He took Mondays off to work at the pantry.
“It’s not that big of a deal,” he downplays. “It’s something to get you away from the house.”
Gene’s spirit and humor draw smiles from the recipients. “You get to know them and they know you. I cut up with them. There was a lady the other day … I had a (Granbury) Pirate jacket on. She asked, ‘Were you a Pirate?’ I said 1956.”
That was the year Gene graduated from Granbury High School. He and his twin sister were born in Mitchell Bend in far southern Hood County seven months after their father died. He and his sister were the youngest among eight siblings.
Gene’s the only survivor.
Jude, the oldest, became the family father figure, working on the farm and helping his mother raise the children. Jude started the Durant Chevrolet dealership in Granbury. He hired Gene to work on the cars.
For 20 years Gene was a volunteer at a kids summer camp before neuropathy prevented him from much walking. It’s called Royal Family Kids’ Camp for abused, neglected or abandoned children.
Gene also helps with the First Responder Lunch at the church. Every Tuesday from September through May the church prepares a hot meal for first responders. They’ll feed from 55 to 85 people each time.
Why volunteer? Gene could spend most of his time playing golf or cards or taking long naps, but he believes that volunteering is simply trying to be a good Christian, adding, “You gotta find something to do. You can go crazy sitting there watching that boob tube.”
Gene counts his blessings every day. He said he didn’t always wear the nicest clothes growing up but had food and shelter. “I never went hungry and always had a roof over my head,” he said with his trademark smile.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
SAUCE:
2 tablespoons ketchup
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoons orange juice
1 teaspoon garlic (about 1 clove), minced
1 teaspoon ginger, minced
CHICKEN:
12 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 2 large breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 24 cubes)
1 cup fresh pineapple, diced (about 24 pieces)
8 wooden skewers (6 inches each), soaked in water
To make sauce: Combine ketchup, soy sauce, honey, orange juice, garlic and ginger; mix well. Separate into two bowls and set aside.
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Preheat oven to 350 F.
Alternately thread three chicken cubes and three pineapple chunks on each skewer. Grill skewers 3-5 minutes on each side. Brush or spoon sauce from one bowl onto chicken and pineapple every other minute. Discard remaining sauce from first bowl.
To prevent chicken from drying out, finish cooking to minimum internal temperature of 165 F in oven. Using clean brush or spoon, coat with sauce from remaining bowl before serving.
Source: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Do you miss receiving letters and cards in the mail? Make new friends by joining a Hoopla Pen Pal Circle! Circles are limited to 10 people so communicating with your circle only costs you the price of 9 first-class stamps. We ask that you strive to mail your new friends at least once per month. To join, send a card or letter to Hoopla, P.O. Box 305, Weatherford, TX 76086. Please note: no business solicitations are allowed in these circles.
Adrienne Malmberg was burned out.
The Seattle native and former middle school teacher was ready for a change of pace and change of scenery, and fortunately, opportunity knocked.
Servolution Network Inc. is an Azle non-profit that defines its mission as building “an alliance between churches, businesses, governments, and others to provide solutions to meet the needs of the community,” saying, “We exist to serve others by showing God’s love in practical ways. We create opportunities for the blessed to be a blessing.”
And so the twain did meet.
“God made it very clear to me that I needed a change in venue,” Malmberg said. “And then I heard that Servolution was looking for a grant writer. A few years prior to that, I had met someone that was a grant writer, and it was intriguing to me–but I never had time to really look into what all that entailed. Well, Servolution needed someone and it was a godsend. I have not regretted that move one bit. It has been an amazing journey.”
A journey that took her more than 2,000 miles from home and eventually brought with it a change of employment, but also one that has made her life exponentially more fulfilling.
And what Malmberg termed a “godsend” has turned out to be a two-way street for the organization.
In 2021, the Azle-based charity was in need of a facility to help continue its operations and Malmberg answered the call.
The Parker County woman wrote a grant proposal to Mueller Inc. (in partnership with Texas Country Reporter), as part of the company’s Helping Hand Project, for a 4,000-square-foot warehouse facility that Servolution ended up winning.
Malmberg, 53, was still teaching when she got the news.
“I was literally over the moon, and I found out while I was at school,” Malmberg said. “I got to tell every one of my sixth-grade writing students, ‘If you don’t understand why you need to learn to write, here’s your why.’ They were thrilled for me, and I’m not sure they really understood what all of that meant, but they knew that it was a big deal. And just to see a piece of writing turned into a building was incredible. It was so easy for me to tell my students ‘This is your why. You’ve got to be able to communicate.’”
Malmberg said Servolution could not have asked for more from the facility, either, saying “It was basically turnkey as far as having the structure up and having all its doors.”
Malmberg has her bachelor’s degree from Pacific Christian College (which was renamed Hope International University) in Fullerton, California, and has worked as a hostess, in janitorial jobs, and as a bookkeeper
Adrienne Malmberg, center, with Texas Country Reporter hosts Bob and Kelli Phillips.
and contractor, among other professions.
When she started with Servolution, she was doing grant writing and then also co-leading the Pay It Forward program, which is the organization’s furniture and appliance warehouse.
“Grant writing and the communications needs became a better use of my time,” Malmberg said. “And I do not say this lightly, because I love Pay it Forward. It is amazing to help people with furniture and appliances, but it was something where I needed to use my writing skills and step things up a little bit more.”
And Malmberg did just that, earning more grants for Servolution including some from the United Way.
Aside from the furniture ministry, Servolution offers a number of other programs like Good Neighbors, which does home revitalizations, the Fig Leaf Boutique, which is a clothing closet, Blessing Boxes, which are stand-alone pantries, and Fill the Bin, where people can make donations.
Malmberg said if she ever needs reminding of why she
does what she does she thinks back to an elderly woman the organization helped a few years back.
“She had a deck and it was fairly large, but she was in a power chair,” Malmberg said. “So if she needed to go to the doctor or the grocery store or whatever, she would have to abandon her power chair at her front door, creep along her deck which was probably 10 to 15 feet wide, and then go down five or six rickety stairs. She had to be desperate to leave her house, but she was terrified to do so.
“When we got that deck built, and we were able to present her with it, I remember her crying. And she told us that it was the first time in nine years— nine years— that she’d been able to go out and enjoy the sunshine on her deck. Can you imagine that? People are living like that right now and it’s breaking my heart.”
Currently, the organization is raising funds to install new air conditioners for those in need. If you need assistance or would like to help, visit www. servolutionnetwork.com for more information on the Servolution Network Inc.
• Bird Walk, wear appropriate clothing and shoes, July 1, Acton Nature Center, 6500 Smoky Hill Court, Granbury, 7 a.m.
• Wood, Wave and Wheels Car Show, hosted by the Roadrunner Corvette Cruisers of DFW, July 1, Fort Worth Boat Club, 10000 Boat Club Road, Fort Worth, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Senior Social Hour, play games, share stories, learn history and meet friends, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, Fort Worth Public Library - Riverside, 2913 Yucca Avenue, Fort Worth, 3 to 5 p.m.
• Saginaw Independence Day Celebration, including music, food, fun, and fireworks, July 1, Saginaw High School, 800 N. Blue Mound Road, 6 p.m. Fireworks around 9 p.m. Free admission.
• Free Community Yoga Class, bring your mat and water, July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, The Trailhead at Clearfork, 4801 Edwards Ranch Road, Fort Worth, 9 to 10 a.m.
• Granbury’s Hometown 4th of July Festival, vendors and music on the square, July 1-4, Granbury Square, Parade starts at 9 a.m. on July 4. Fireworks at 9:45 p.m. over the lake.
• Coloring Friends, join other adults who enjoy coloring. Supplies provided. July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Holland Lake Rehabilitation & Wellness, 1201 Holland Lake Drive, Weatherford, 10 a.m.
• Red, White, and Pool Party, family-style picnic of fried chicken, potato salad, plus homemade ice cream, July 4, Overture River District, 4925 Scott Road, Fort Worth, 3 to 5 p.m. RSVP is a must. Call 817-252-4000.
• Fort Worth’s Fourth, including music by Metal Shop and Party Machine Band, July 4, Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth, parking at 395 Purcey Street, Fort Worth, Gates open at 5 p.m. music starts at 6 pm. 301st Flyover at 8 p.m. fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Free admission. Parking $20.
• AAMA Follow the Flag, a Christian-based celebration with live music, food and fireworks, July 4, Central Park in Azle, 7 p.m. Free admission. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, chairs, ice chests, food, but no alcohol is allowed.
• Spark in the Park, including music by Pat Green, July 4, Heritage Park Amphitheater, 503 Santa Fe Drive, Weatherford, Music starts at 6
p.m. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Free admission. Free shuttle from parking area near Heritage Park or from Weatherford College parking lot.
• Free Line Dance Lessons with admission, July 5, 12, 19, 26, Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, 7 p.m.
• Midcities Stamp Club, trades and sales allowed, July 5, Bob Duncan Community Center, 2800 South Center Street, Vandergriff Park, Arlington, 7 pm.
• AARP Smart Driver’s Course, get a discount on your auto insurance by completing this course, July 5, Keller Senior Center, 640 Johnson Road, Keller, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 pm. Call 817743-4370. Limited space.
• Indoor Fort Worth Summer Vendor Market, features 20+ local vendors, live music, food trucks (family and dog friendly), July 5, Rahr & Sons Brewing, 701 Galveston Avenue, Fort Worth, 5 to 9 p.m.
• Books and Brews Book Club discusses “City on Fire” by Don Winslow, July 5, T&P Tavern, 221 W. Lancaster Ave. #1000, Fort Worth, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
• Summer Coloring Cooldown for Adults, no supplies necessary, no fee, July 5, Fort Worth Public Library, 4300 E. Berry, Fort Worth, 5 to 6 p.m.
• Adult Crafting Hour, supplies furnished, free, July 5, 12, 19, 26, Southwest Regional Library, 4001 Library Lane, Fort Worth, 3 to 4 p.m.
• Gardening Club, July 6, 13, 20, 27, Weatherford Senior Center, 1220 Holland Lake Drive, Weatherford, 9 a.m.
• Walking Club, July 6, 13, 20, 27, Weatherford Senior Center, 1220 Holland Lake Drive, Weatherford, 8:30 a.m.
• Hood County Senior Center Dances, featuring music by country/western bands every Thursday night, July 6, 13, 20, 27, 501 E. Moore St. Granbury, 7 p.m. $5 per person.
• Springtown Senior Center Dances, country/ western bands every Thursday and Saturday night. July 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29, Springtown Senior Activity Center, 1070 N. Main Street, Springtown, 7 to 10 p.m. Bands and unanticipated cancellations listed on Facebook. $5 admission per person.
• Hot Summer Nights on Marine Creek Lake, hosted by Metroplex Ski Club, July 6, 13, 20, 27, Marine Creek Lake, Ten Mile Bridge Road, Fort Worth, 6 to 9 p.m.
• Trivia Night with prizes, July 6, 13, 20, 27, The Radler, 1229 Seventh Avenue, Fort Worth, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.
• Billy Bob Thornton and the Boxmasters perform live, July 6, Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall, 122 E. Exchange Street, Suite 200, Fort Worth. Box office opens at 6 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets also available through LiveNation.
• PBR Stockyards Showcase - Professional Bull Riders, July 6, 13, 20, 27, Cowtown Coliseum, 121 E. Exchange Avenue, Fort Worth, 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $15.
• Teas Hold Em Poker Night, July 6, 13, 20, 27, Silver Saddle Saloon, 124 N Houston Street, Granbury, 7 to 11 p.m.
• Free Admission Friday at the Modern with special programming, July 7, Modern Museum of Art, 3200 Darnell Street, Fort Worth.
• Malpass Brothers in concert, July 7, Granbury Live on Granbury Square, 7:30 p.m. Call 800340-9703.
• The Write Stuff, journal and make new friends, July 7, Fort Worth Public Library - Ridglea, 3628 Bernie Anderson, Fort Worth, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
• Happy Hour at the Kimbell Art Museum, live entertainment, snacks and drinks available for purchase, July 7, 14, 21, 28, Kimbell Art Museum, Kahn Building (Cafe), 3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, 5 to 7 p.m.
• Parker County Peach Festival, downtown Weatherford, July 8, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. See P. 3 for more information.
• Disc Golf Mini Tournament, July 8, 15, 22, 29, Granbury Disc Golf Course, 600 West Moore Street, Granbury, 2 p.m. $12.
• Girls Night Out on Granbury Square, live entertainment, dining, shopping, door prizes, July 8, Granbury Square, 3 to 7 p.m. Ask for punch card for a chance to win $500 shopping spree.
• Experimental Aircraft Association, pancake breakfast at 8:30 a.m., meeting follows, July 8, Pecan Plantation Airport, 9600 Airpark Dr. Granbury, 10 a.m.
• Steve Earle: Alone Again - Solo and Acoustic, July 8, Tannahill’s Tavern and Music Hall, 122 E. Exchange Street, Suite 200, Fort Worth, Box office opens at 6 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets also available through LiveNation.com.
• Lone Star Murder Mystery Dinner and Show, July 8, Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, 6 p.m. dinner, show at 7. Call 817-6247117 for tickets.
• Lola’s Local Farmers Market featuring 30+ locally-grown and produced vendors, live music, bar bites and food trucks, pet friendly, July 9, 2000 W. Berry Street, Fort Worth, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission.
• Funky Gets Wild: Book Club, focuses on outdoor and adventure-themed books, discussing “The Hatchet,” by Gary Paulsen, July 9, Funky Picnic Brewery& Cafe, 401 Bryan Avenue, Suite 117, Fort Worth, 3 to 4:30 p.m. Brunch menu, happy hour drinks available for purchase.
• The Holistic Fair, vendors, massage, reflexology, oils, workshops and more, July 9, Billy Bob’s Texas, 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, Noon to 6 p.m. $5 admission fee. $10 parking lot nearby as well as hourly parking.
• Knitty Gritty Knitting and Crochet Group, for all ages, no experience necessary, July 11, 18, 25, White Settlement Road Public Library, 8215 White Settlement Road, 3 to 4 p.m. Bring your own yarn and knitting needles or crochet hook.
• Granbury Knitting Guild meeting, includes knitting classes for beginners each month, July 11, First Presbyterian Church, 303 Bridge St. Granbury, 9:30 a.m.
• Artistic Expressions (craft night) at Weatherford Library, July 11, 1014 Charles St. Weatherford, 6 p.m. Supplies provided.
• Needle Arts Group, bring your own project, July 11, Weatherford Public Library, 1014 Charles St. Weatherford, 1 to 3 p.m.
• Trivia Game Night, prizes $5-$25 in gift cards, July 11, 18, 25, Old Chicago Pizza, 8933 North Freeway, Fort Worth, 7 to 9 p.m. Participants use their phone submit answers and get points.
• Trivia Night, featuring trivia from the 1970s, July 12, Southwest Regional Library, 4001 Library Lane, Fort Worth, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• Trivia Night, July 11, 18, 25, Cowtown Brewing, 1301 E. Belknap, Fort Worth, 7 to 9 p.m.
• Get Lit Book Club, discussing “The People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry, July 11, Southwest Regional Library, 4001 Library Lane, Fort Worth, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• Writing Workshop, get your creative juices flowing, all levels welcome, July 12, 26, Fort Worth Public Library, 4264 Golden Triangle, Fort Worth, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• Music Bingo, great tunes, drinks, prizes for winners and taco food truck, July 12, 19, 26, The Rabbit Hole Pub, 3237 White Settlement Road, Fort Worth, 7 to 9 p.m.
‘“Learn as if you will live forever, live like you will die tomorrow.”
— Mahatma Gandhi
• Karaoke at The Hop, thousands of titles and a professional audio system, July 12, 19, 26, HopFusion Ale Works, 200 E. Broadway Avenue, Fort Worth, 8 to 11 p.m.
• Bingo Night , July 12, 19, 26, Locust Cider, 710 S. Main Street, Suite 100, Fort Worth, 7 to 9 p.m.
• Dance Night, sponsored by the Widowed Persons Service (but open to all), July 12, Elks Lodge, 601 Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, 6:30 to 9 p.m. $10 per person.
• Second Thursdays at Amon Carter Museum features cocktails, creativity and conversation, July 13, Amon Carter Museum, 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd. 5 to 8 p.m. Free event with reservations required. Call (817) 989-5013.
• Thursday Night Wine Club, an opportunity taste new wines and meet new people, July 13, Social House, 840 Currie Street, Fort Worth, 6 to 8 p.m. Reservation includes 3-4 tastings of wine or spirits, complimentary appetizers, classroomstyle education from experts in the field. Call 817-820-1510 for reservations.
• Mineral Wells Senior Center Dance, featuring the music of The Lonesome Fugitive, July 14, 102 N.W. 6th Ave. Mineral Wells, 7 p.m. $5 admission includes snacks and drinks.
• Spring Creek Musical, live music in outdoor venue, July 14, Spring Creek Tabernacle, 104 Spring Creek Road, Weatherford, 6:30 p.m. Free admission.
• Loco for Coconut Party, includes themed drinks, hula dancers, fire dancers, live music, plus a pig roast on Saturday, July 14-15, Truck Yard Alliance, 3101 Prairie Vista Drive, Fort Worth, Starts on Friday at 5 p.m. Picks back up on Saturday,
• Chair Yoga, all fitness levels, July 14, Southwest Regional Library, 4001 Library Lane, Fort Worth, 4 to 5 p.m.
• Beach Boys Tribute, July 14-15, Granbury Opera House on the Granbury Square. For tickets, call 817-579-0952.
• Jeep Show benefitting The Walk to End Alzheimer’s includes barbecue, gourmet pops, plus trophies in all categories, July 15, 4 Wheel Parts, 152 Interstate 20, Weatherford, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Questions can be answered by emailing melissahorton572@yahoo.com.
• Granbury Irish Music Session, Irish musicians welcome to jam, July 15, D’Vine Wine, 107 E. Bridge Street, Granbury, 6 to 9 p.m.
• Lola’s Rock ’n’ Roll Rummage Sale, Fort Worth’s largest running outdoor monthly market featuring artists, creators and collectors, plus music and food, July 16, 2000 W. Berry Street,
Fort Worth, noon to 5 p.m. Free admission.
• Granbury Quilting Guild meeting, July 17, United Cooperative Services Community Room, 320 Fall Creek Hwy. Granbury, 6 p.m.
• Book Club - Azle, discussing “The Measure” by Nikki Erlick, July 18, Azle Memorial Library, 333 W. Main Street, Azle, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Request this month’s title at the reference desk (while supplies last).
• Book Club - Weatherford, discussing “Dressmakers of Auschwitz” by Lucy Adlington, July 18, Weatherford Public Library, 1014 Charles St. Weatherford, 6 to 7 p.m. Request this month’s title at the reference desk (while supplies last).
• Pointillist Dot Art class, no experience necessary, July 18, Fort Worth Public Library, 3628 Bernie Anderson, Fort Worth, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• AARP Smart Driver’s Course, participants get a discount on auto insurance, July 19, Hector F. Garcia Community Center, 7901 Indian Springs Road, Watauga, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Call 817-5145892. Limited space.
• AARP Smart Driver’s Course, participants get a discount on auto insurance, July 20, First Baptist Church, 7801 White Settlement Road, White Settlement, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 817-2462171. Limited space.
• Artful Moments for Dementia Patients and Caregivers, exploration of Amon Carter museum exhibits, hands-on activities, July 20, Amon Carter Museum, 3501 Camp Bowie Blvd. 1:30 to 3 p.m. Register online at cartermuseum.org or call 817-989-5013.
• North Fort Worth Book Club discusses “The Inmate” by Freida McFadden, July 20, World Blend, 5410 Basswood Blvd. Fort Worth, 6 to 8 p.m.
• AARP Smart Driver’s Course, get a discount on your auto insurance by completing this course, July 21, Azle Senior Center, 601 Southeast Parkway, Azle, 8:30 am. to 1:30 p.m. Call 817-444-0070. Limited space.
• Once Upon A Mattress, presented by Weatherford College, July 21, 22, 28, 29, Alkek Fine Arts Center on the Weatherford College campus, 7:30 p.m. Tickets $10.
• National Day of the American Cowboy, includes live western music, petting zoo, food trucks, cattle drive, parade, calf roping, armadillo races, cow milking and more, July 22, Fort Worth Stockyards. Kicks off at 10 a.m. Parade at 11:30. Old West Comedy Gunfights start at high noon.
• Parker County Senior Center Summer Carnival, featuring live music, food, games, children’s activities, July 22, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Senior Cen-
ter, 1225 Holland Lake Drive, Weatherford.
• Last Monday Matinee, featuring “80 For Brady”, July 24, Azle Memorial Library, 333 W. Main Street, Azle, 2 p.m.
• Mid-Cities Stamp Club, includes buy/trade time before and after meeting, July 25, Bentwater Activity Center, 1800 W Emerald Ct. Granbury, 7 p.m.
• Poetry Jam, show your linguistic prowess and win bragging rights, July 25, Southwest Regional Library, 4001 Library Lane, Fort Worth, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
• Hot Mess Craft Club, for grown-ups only, BYOB, July 27, The Welman Project, 3950 W. Vickery Boulevard, Fort Worth, 6 to 8 p.m. $20 per person.
• Dance Night, sponsored by the Widowed Persons Service but open to all, July 28, Burleson Senior Center, 216 SW Johnson, Burleson, 6:30 to 9 p.m. Donations accepted at the door.
• “White Elephant” opens at Hip Pocket Theatre, a fantastical melding of puppetry and music, July 28, Hip Pocket Theatre, 1950 Silver Creek Road, Fort Worth, 9 to 10:30 p.m.
• Mineral Wells Senior Center Dance, featuring the music of Michael Cote and Bryan Daniel, July 28, 102 N.W. 6th Ave. Mineral Wells, 7 p.m. $5 admission includes snacks and drinks.
• Music, Massage & Merlot, enjoy karaoke, $1 per minute chair massages, wine and appetizers, July 28, D’Vine Wine, 107 E. Bridge Street, Granbury, 7 to 10 p.m.
• Fort Worth Memories 10th Birthday Party, featuring entertainment by Jasper and Karen, July 29, The Point on Lake Worth, 1349 Bomber Road, Fort Worth, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Embroidered Canvas Creations, all skill levels welcome, supplies and tips provided, July 29, Southwest Regional Library, 4001 Library Lane, Fort Worth, 3 to 4 p.m.
Carol Clack was only five when she began playing the piano. She said it relieved the stress and anxiety that came from her father serving in WWII.
With patience and dedication, music became Carol’s passion. She was playing the organ at church by age 12. After earning a music degree, she shared that passion with students in North Texas – and eventually took a teaching position in Midland.
It was there that she met Gary Hall in 1963. He was a former Navy officer who was working for Texaco as a petroleum engineer. Gary invited Carol to a party, and the two hit it off.
“We had just barely gotten acquainted, and you know what she does?” he asked. “She goes to Pakistan to live for 10 weeks. I just had that kind of effect on her,” Gary joked.
Actually, she had been selected as a Midland Community Ambassador. She was tasked with spending time in the Asian country so she could share the culture with the Midland community upon her return.
When she did return to the states, Carol and Gary picked up where they left off. At the time, Gary was still in the Navy Reserve.
“I never was thinking about marriage. I was just out having a good time,” Gary said. “It just developed. We just fell in love.”
One weekend, he had to report for duty in New Orleans, so Carol joined him.
“Carol flew in on Friday evening. I picked her up. On Saturday, we got married,” said Gary.
That night they had dinner at the Hotel Roosevelt in New Orleans.
“There was a photographer walking around who asked if he could take a picture. We said ok, and I’m glad we did because that’s the only picture we have of our wedding day.” He pointed to the photo. “Now don’t you think she’s pretty?”
Gary and Carol shared a lifetime of happy memories — the births of three daughters, milestone birthdays and anniversaries, choir trips to Europe, France and Germany.
“I can’t remember any rough times at all,” Gary said.
Vacations were at the beach — either Pensacola or Galveston — where they frequently welcomed guests. Gary and Carol loved to entertain year-round. The Hall family hosted dozens of friends and family members every Christmas, even after they retired and relocated to Granbury.
Together, the couple made beautiful music, bringing light and love into many lives.
But the light faded in 2021 when Carol was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). After several months of suffering, she succumbed to the disease, leaving Gary devastated.
“When you lose your partner, everything changes,” he said.
Gary and his daughters agreed that he should move to a senior community after Carol passed. The family was impressed by The Ridglea. It’s easy to see why. The community is bustling with activities every day of the week. The friendly staff is eager to assist residents with everyday tasks, the meals are chef-prepared, and the building itself is exquisitely decorated. There are resort-style amenities, including a well-equipped fitness room and a movie theater.
Gary, who has been at The Ridglea a little over a year, said he’s made lots of new friends but prefers to spend time alone. He takes walks each day around a nearby golf course, collecting stray golf balls for his sons-in-law. He relishes a good nap and appreciates happy hour. The on-site church service is also beneficial, he said. Gary lives in a spacious onebedroom apartment with a full kitchen. A large picture window gives him a view of the well-manicured grounds.
“One of my most prized possessions,” he said as he pointed to a framed family portrait from Carol’s 80th birthday party.
“I’ve always been so proud of our family. I feel very blessed because we’re all healthy,” Gary said. “It’s a good life.”
Photos and memories cover every inch of the apartment. One photo of the couple in motorcycle attire seemed a bit out of place.
“We dressed up like that one time and asked the girls to come over. We called them in and said. ‘Girls, we have something to tell you. We’ve retired and we’ve drawn all of our money in, and we’ve bought a couple of motorcycles — we’re just gonna hit the road.’ We didn’t of course,” he said with a laugh. “Carol was a lot of fun.”
There’s a box filled with poems that he’s copied down on notebook paper since Carol’s passing.
“I saw this one time and copied it,” he said, holding one of the poems. It was titled ‘I’ll Never Smile Again.’”
But he did smile a lot as he looked through old photo albums and spoke of their adventures. In addition to the many memories, Carol left behind two compact disc recordings of her piano music.
“Everyone loved Carol,” he said more than once.
Gary’s story is not uncommon in senior communities. For most of us, home is where our beloved resides. Once that special person is gone, where do you go? How do you take proper care of yourself when life no longer has the same appeal? If you’re like Gary, you go to a place like The Ridglea, where you’re respected and treated like family — a place where you can relax and relish those wonderful memories and make new ones.
Weatherford Art Association chose the top three artists for May. They are, from left, Michael McCarty (1st), “Three Tenors,” graphite; Carolyn Bernard Young (2nd), “Defending Friendship” acrylics; and Carmen Davailus (3rd), “Pretty Red Petals,” photo metal.
While the storm clouds gather far across the sea, let us swear allegiance to a land that’s free
Let us all be grateful for a land so fair, as we raise our voices in a solemn prayer.
James Campbell was still in diapers when Kate Smith said those words before debuting a new song by Irving Berlin in 1939. The song was “God Bless America,” and it’s a song and sentiment that has meant a great deal to James throughout his life.
James, who comes from a long line of patriots, choked up as he recalled each family member lost in war, as well as the many friends and neighbors from his hometown of Wichita, Kansas.
“I remember walking down the street in the neighborhood and seeing the blue stars in the windows,” he said.
Some were in honor of coworkers since young James was already employed as a beef grader at age 14.
“I think about these guys…I worked with butchers. They were 25, 30 years old — I thought they were old.They treated me great. I can remember telling my mom, ‘Mom, I don’t want to wear blue jeans anymore.’ She said, ‘Why?’ I said, ‘The butchers wore khakis.’”
Young James and his family also mourned an uncle who died shortly after the war.
“I had an uncle who was so badly wounded he was left on the field for dead,”
he said. “He survived, but he died of the Soldier’s Disease.”
Throughout his childhood, James heard the stories of his ancestors. He’s related to William Bradford, who came over on the Mayflower, as well as the sixth President of the United States, John Quincy Adams. His great-great-greatgreat-grandfather was promoted to brigadier general by George Washington in the Revolutionary War.
“I’m proud of that. They all served,” he said, referring to his ancestors.
Understanding the importance of protecting the country and its freedoms, James joined the Naval Reserves when he was fresh out of high school.
He served on the USS Toledo CA-133, a cruiser that protected aircraft carriers, and recalled marveling at the beauty of the battle ship traveling alongside his cruiser.
“You are expendable…that ship is not,” he was told.
James traveled extensively while serving his country and later on with his wife Phyllis, who has since passed.
“There’s nothing like America,” he said. “I’ve been halfway around the world.”
After serving, James graduated from Wichita State and also studied at the University of California in Los Angeles. He worked in the parks system of California for 27 years before returning to beef grading. Now at 85, he lives at Azle Manor Healthcare and Rehabilitation, northwest of Fort Worth.
“I have zero complaints,” he said of the senior community. “Everybody here from
the very top person to the very bottom have treated me with great respect.
“And, if you live to 85 years of age, what the hell have you got to complain about?
“I’ve had 85 good years. I’ve got two beautiful daughters, four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren. What else could a man ask for?”
He showed off a star-spangled shirt his daughter purchased for him, which he plans to wear on the Fourth of July.
“I just can’t think of anything better than being an American,” he said with a smile.
I just got a call from my wife who is vacationing with my sister in North Carolina. This trip worries me. If my name comes up, no one in that car will take my side.
Mary Ellen was pulled over by the police for a minor infraction. Mary Ellen never breaks the rules. She believes rules were made to be followed. This kind of harebrained notion caused a rift in the way we raised our son. To Mary Ellen’s credit, in over 35 years Brett has not spent a single night in jail.
Getting pulled over has crushed her, ruined her clean record and put a damper on her vacation. Her life has been exemplary. She never had detention, never told a lie, or even hot-wired a car. She was a saint. Until today. When you have a perfect record—not just in driving, but in your entire life—being followed by a police officer is a perplexing and nerve-racking experience.
I have studied the best way to deal with cops when getting pulled over for speeding.
For example, I know that saying, “Officer, I was running out of gas, so I had to get home quicker,” just doesn’t work.
Mary Ellen, on the other hand, has no experience in this area. When she noticed the lights flashing behind her, she waved the policeman around her. In fact, she waved him around her for about 23 blocks. Then it dawned on her that he was after her.
by Dick Wolfsie Humorist
“When you stop crying, ma’am, may I see your license and registration?”
“There must be some mistake, officer. I’ve never done anything wrong in my life. You must have me confused with my husband.”
“Look, lady, I’m going back to the patrol car to check your record.”
“While you’re checking, you might take notice of the fact that I have never cheated on a test, from kindergarten through my MBA. And this is especially noteworthy: I never let anyone look at my paper, either.”
“Ma’am, your license plates are expired.”
“How could you possibly know that?”
“The sticker on the plate says 2022.”
“Well, how can you expect me to see that from the driver’s seat?”
I actually tried that line myself once, hoping to get a laugh from a cop. I got a sobriety test instead. Now back to the phone call from Mary Ellen right after she was stopped…
“Dick, I was just pulled over by the police.”
“Why didn’t you let my sister drive the getaway car?”
“Look, this is not a joke. Up until 20 minutes ago, I had a perfect record. Do you know what this stain on my reputation means?”
“A big celebration at the convent! You’ve moved a lot of the sisters into first place.”
This event apparently created some soul searching on Mary Ellen’s part. “You know, Dick, this brush with the law has given me a new perspective. I’ve led too sheltered an existence. In fact, marrying you is the only questionable thing I’ve done until today.”
“Mary Ellen, marrying me was not exactly committing a crime.”
“No, but it’s probably the closest I’ll ever come.”
When you’re retired, you’ll likely have some financial concerns — just like all retirees. However, if you’ve invested regularly and followed a longterm financial strategy, you should be able to address most issues that come your way. But there’s one important action that’s sometimes overlooked by retirees: sharing their financial situation with their grown children. And this knowledge can benefit everyone in your family.
You might be surprised by the concern your children have for your financial well-being. Consider these findings from a 2023 study by Age Wave and Edward Jones:
arrangements. In fact, 72% of today’s retirees have downsized or are willing to downsize to reduce their housing costs, according to the Age Wave/Edward Jones survey. Downsizing isn’t for everyone, but if it’s a possibility for you, it may be worth considering because the savings could be significant.
• 66% of millennials (generally defined as ranging from 27 to 42) worry that their parents or in-laws may not have enough money to live comfortably in retirement.
• 83% of millennials would rather know their parents are financially secure in their retirement, even if it means their parents pass on less money to them.
If you have children in this age range or older, or who soon will be, how can you address their concerns and potentially improve your financial outlook? Communication is the key. By openly communicating with your family about your financial status, you can reduce anxieties and misperceptions. If you’re in good financial shape, your adult children may be reassured that you won’t be needing their assistance. And if you are feeling some financial pressures, you can inform your children of the steps you are taking to improve your situation.
One such step may be to reduce your cost of living — the less you spend day to day, the better your ability to preserve your investment and retirement accounts. You may be able to reduce costs in many small ways, such as ending streaming services you no longer use, but you could make an even bigger impact by downsizing your living
You may also be able to reduce or consolidate your debts. Start by understanding how much and what kinds of debt you have. Then, consider ways to lower payments, such as refinancing. For example, if you’re carrying a balance on multiple credit cards, you might be able to transfer the amounts you owe onto a single card with a more favorable interest rate.
Here’s another move to consider: Adjust your investment mix to possibly provide you with more income in retirement. During your working years, you may have invested primarily for growth — after all, you could be retired for two or more decades, so you’ll need to draw on as many financial assets as possible. But once you’re retired, your investment focus may need to shift somewhat toward income-producing opportunities. Keep in mind, though, that you’ll still need some growth potential to help keep ahead of inflation.
One final suggestion: Let your children know if you already have a strategy in place to meet the potentially high costs of long-term care, such as a nursing home stay. This burden is certainly something you won’t want your children to take on.
By informing your children about your financial picture, and how you’re trying to improve it, you can ease everyone’s minds — so keep the lines of communication open.
Interest in bereavement support counseling has mushroomed in recent years. WPS wants those widowed to be able to go forward with their lives. We provide the tools, and we have established that our Grief Support sessions work and have worked for over 40 years with hundreds of the widowed now able to go on with their lives in a satisfactory way.
For any other information on Grief Support, call the WPS office 817-5512922 Mon-Thu, 10AM-2PM or Ruth Turner 817-713-9372. If no answer at either number, please leave a voicemail.
July 9 : Pleasantview Baptist Church, 4400 Pleasant View Dr, Arlington, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Facilitator: Arlyne Clements.
July 16, 23, 30, Aug. 6, 13: Genesis United Methodist Church, 7635 S Hulen St, Ft Worth, 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Facilitator: Ruth Turner.
For more information on any event or to join, call:
817-551-2922
ARLINGTON
Breakfast : Every Saturday 8:30 AM : Skillet & Grill, 1801 W Division St, Arlington.
Lunch : July 13, 11:45 AM : Tom’s Burgers, 1530 N Cooper St, Arlington.
BURLESON
Breakfast : Every Tuesday (exluding July 4) 8:30 AM : Our Place, 950 N Burleson Blvd, Burleson.
Lunch : July 27, 11:30 AM : On the Border, 13005 S Frwy, Burleson.
Dinner : July 17, 4:30 PM : Antonio’s Mexican Restaurant, 344 SW Wilshire Blvd, Burleson.
GRAND PRAIRIE
Brunch: Every Wednesday 10:30 AM: Theo’s Bar & Grill, 107 NW 8th, Grand Prairie.
MANSFIELD
Breakfast : Every Saturday 8:30 AM: The Porch, 2771 E Broad St, Mansfield (across from Methodist Hospital).
Lunch : July 7, Noon : Mama Cuca’s Mexican, 2880 FM 157 (S Cooper), Ste 110, Mansfield.
Dinner: July 26, 4:00 PM : Buffalo Wild Wings, 1716 US 287 N Frontage Rd, Mansfield.
Games: Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday 1:30 - 4:00 PM : Mansfield Methodist Church, 777 N Walnut Creek Dr, Mansfield.
NORTHEAST
Breakfast : Every Saturday 9:00 AM : The Corner Café, 7901 Mid Cities Blvd, Ste 242, N Richland Hills.
Lunch : July 12, 1:00 PM: Café Medi, 420 Grapevine Hwy, #101A, Hurst.
Dinner : July 18, 5:00 PM: Italliani’s Restaurant, 1601 Precinct Line Rd, Hurst.
SOUTHWEST
Breakfast : Every Thursday 9:00 AM: Cracker Barrel, 8010 SW Loop 820 (exit Winscott Rd), Benbrook.
Wednesday, July 12 : Dance, Elks Lodge, 601 Pioneer Parkway, Arlington, 6:30 to 9 p.m. $10 per person.
Friday, July 28 : Hop (Dance), Burleson Senior Center, 216 SW Johnson, Burleson, 6:30 to 9 p.m. No admission. Donation only.
Pam Wilkins of Weatherford won last month’s frog contest. Enter this month’s by emailing to tell us where you found a hidden frog (sample above). Email entry to seniors@hooplamagazine.com. Pick up next month’s issue to see if you’ve won! Winners must contact Hoopla within 30 days.
Theatre Off the Square
Ticket Info: 817-341-8687
Tentative Dates: July 28 - Aug. 6
Synopsis: Wayside School is a strange place. Thirty stories high, one classroom per story, well, actually, only 29 stories high, because the 19th floor doesn’t exist. On the 30th floor, Mrs. Gorf has been turning students into apples. The two remaining students better think of something fast.
Casa Manana
3101 W Lancaster Ave, Fort Worth
Ticket Info: 817-332-2272
Tentative Dates: Sept. 9-17
Synopsis: With phenomenal music, memorable characters, and great storytelling, Jersey Boys is the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Featuring electrifying performances of chart-topping hits including “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” “Dawn,” and “My Eyes Adored You.”
Popcorn Players
114 Porter Drive, Azle
Ticket Info: 817-238-7529
Tentative Dates: July 21 - 30
Synopsis: Dogsbreath Devereaux, M.D., plots to wed and do away with the wealthy widow Lotta Cash so he can inherit her fortune and her late husband’s clinic. He enlists the aid of the nasty nurse, Hilda Hatchet, and promises to marry her once he disposes of Lotta. Problems arise with the insanely jealous Hilda catches Dogsbreath flirting with Wendy March, the heroine of our show. Set in a clinic filled with zany patients, this melodrama is sure to leave your audience in stitches.
Granbury Opera House
133 E. Pearl Street, Granbury
Ticket Info: 817-579-0952
Tentative Dates: Aug. 11 - Sept. 10
Synopsis: The musical follows fasttalking traveling salesman, Harold Hill, as he cons the people of River City, Iowa, into buying instruments and uniforms for a boys’ band that he vows to organize – this, despite the fact that he doesn’t know a trombone from a treble clef. His plans to skip town with the cash are foiled when he falls for Marian, the librarian, who transforms him into a respectable citizen by curtain’s fall.
Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.”
–John 6:35We are all searching for something to fill the space in our lives that only God is meant to fill. When we try to fill that need with anything other than God, it is like giving a thirsty child a salty snack. It only produces an insatiable thirst. The more we try, the more unfulfilled we will be.
Jesus says in the passage above that He is everything we need – ever. If we will only go to Him to seek our satisfaction, we will never hunger and thirst, therefore, we won’t be wasting time and building idols by looking in the wrong place. We will never find the right things in the wrong places. Relationships, things, drugs, or alcohol are some of the places we go to quench that thirst and fulfill that need. All the things that we think will do it will absolutely not fulfill what only God can fulfill. It is a need that cannot be satisfied anywhere else.
The hunger and thirst this verse speaks of is not physical hunger and thirst. This hunger and thirst refers to a hunger and thirst for righteousness.
It is a desperate longing, a cry from our hearts that can only be satisfied with only what Jesus can give.
Come and Believe: There are two key words in the verse, come and believe. Jesus promises to give us everlasting satisfaction, but we must do our part.
We must choose Him over the world and all that glitters. Sadly, many times we only come to this place after we have destroyed our own lives and the lives of those we love. Only then do we realize that Jesus is the only way, and we can have faith in Him to do what He says He will do.
One day strolling through an antique store, I realized that much of the stuff on the shel-
ves was, at one time, something that someone thought they had to have to be happy. All our stuff here on earth will one day fill the shelves of Goodwill or antique stores. What do we sacrifice to have what we think makes us hunger no more? What problems do we heap on our lives to have what we think will bring us happiness? It is all worthless in the face of death and holds no
eternal value. It does not quench the thirst or stop the hunger pangs. It only brings different pain and makes us want more, taking our focus off the true things that are important in life. Some even lose friends or family to have what they think will satisfy them. Jesus is the only thing that satisfies. He alone fulfills our hunger and thirst – our quest for righteousness. He is the bread of life.
