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Historically, Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers and is traditionally observed on the first Monday in September. It became a federal holiday on June 28, 1894, when it was signed into law by President Grover Cleveland.

At the Paul Anderson Youth Home, we believe that character is not just taught—it’s forged through experience. Whether in the classroom, on the job site, or out on the athletic field, every moment is an opportunity to mold young men into leaders of integrity and purpose. One of the most powerful tools in this transformation is team sports, and more specifically, team building through sports.

As we look forward to the celebration of our nation’s Independence Day, July 4, 2025, we are only one year short of the United States of America’s 250th Birthday, which will be July 4, 2026! We are truly a blessed nation to have enjoyed such a wonderful, democratic nation for so long.

In Luke chapter 9, Jesus gives His disciples power and authority over demons and to heal diseases, and He sends them to heal and proclaim the gospel. They were to take no provisions with them; instead, they were to rely on provisions from others. Verse 6 confirms that the disciples did what they were sent to do.

As Eddie and I slowly drove around the campus, surveying the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, my eyes couldn’t help but land on the devastation. Downed trees, snapped branches, and debris scattered across the property painted a picture of destruction. The storm had left its mark, and our once-beautiful landscape now looked like what I imagine resembles a war zone.

Easter is in April this year, a month in which Spring truly emerges. We are fully immersed in Spring weather and the blooming of flowers and trees; dogwoods, cherry blossoms, pear, azaleas, rhododendrons, daffodils and tulips. We are aware of the changing of our environment and the landscape all around us.

Much like the physical world awakens from its winter slumber, God’s work of regeneration in our lives mirrors this process. The Bible speaks of renewal in many ways, emphasizing how God restores and revives not just the earth but also our hearts and souls.

There is a famous picture of an old man sitting on the floor by his couch and holding the hand of his sweetheart, his wife of many years, who was lying weakly on the same couch, perhaps very near death.

What is there about New Years that tends to set it apart from other holidays? Is it the season of the year, the festivities, or the long-awaited time for a vacation?

No one in this day and age likes waiting! It is, after all, why we have “Fast” Food. It is why we can sometimes pay more money to speed up a few things. Waiting is a real drag for most of us.

What does it mean to give thanks in everything? As we pause at this time of year to celebrate and give thanks for God's gracious bounty and blessings, we should be reminded to give thanks for all things.