Deliberately Diverse represents the opinions of a group of Taylor friends who never completely agree about anything but enjoy diverse discussions.

Jesus told his disciples he was the vine and his father the vine grower.

He used the example of pruning the vine so that we might bear fruit.

Then Jesus invites the disciples, “Abide in me as I abide in you.

Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.

I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.

Whoever does not abide in me is thrown away like a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire and burned.”

To “abide in” is to make your home in or to dwell within. And Jesus invites us to abide in him while he abides in us or makes his home in us.

I grew up in what I would call fire and brimstone country. So even as I hear the invitation, I also hear the threat that if you don’t abide in me, you will burn in hell.

Like much Scripture, we need to understand the world of the disciples to know what they heard in this.

It is spring. In the vineyard, the vine grower is doing two things: For the branches that bear fruit he is pruning off extra growth so that all the energy will be dedicated to the fruit. But there are also branches that bear no fruit.

The Greek word in the sentence, “He removes every branch in me that bears no fruit” means something more like cleaning. So imagine that what the vine grower is doing is cleaning up the branches that bear no fruit with the purpose they will thicken so they can grow fruit in future years and pruning the branches that bear fruit so their energy will go to the fruit.

Some bear fruit now and some are developing so they will bear fruit a later year. All are of value.

In the fall in the vineyards, the branches were trimmed back and all the wood that wasn’t attached to the vine was piled up and burned. The branches being thrown in the fire and burned were part of the routine of the vineyard, keeping it in order. This isn’t a threat of separation from God or abandonment – It is a statement about the cycle of life in the vineyard.

Do you want to grow fruit or do you want to be in the woodpile? I am for being pruned and cleaned and producing fruit.

Pierce is vicar of St.

James’ Episcopal Church in Taylor and can be reached by email at ministry@ stjamestaylor.org.

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m, free, all ages.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Community Gathering with St. James at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 6 p.m., free.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, April 9

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Chair Yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• True Crime Book Club: “The Suspicions of Mr.

Whicher” by Kate Summerscale at The Story Emporium & Bookshop 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 5:30-6:30 p.m., free.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time and Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Friday, April 10

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Karaoke Night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Ripple & Rose Dance Party at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m., $10, ages 18 and up.

• Sterling Country at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

• Huser Brothers at Coupland Dancehall, 401 Hoxie St., Coupland, doors open at 6 p.m.

Ticketing information at CouplandDancehall.com.

Saturday, April 11

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Hutto’s Annual Crawfish Festival in downtown Hutto, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Open Mic Night at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 6 p.m., free, all ages.

Sunday, April 12

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Happy Core Pilates at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 10-11 a.m., details at huttowinebar.

com.

Monday, April 13

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Chair Yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• “Moving Stories Monday” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 10:30-11:30 a.m. for ages 4-12, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for ages 13–18.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, doors open at 6 p.m. Donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, April 14

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time and Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Wednesday, April 15

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, April 16

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Chair Yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Flower pressing craft evening at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6-7:30 p.m. Tickets at huttowinebar.com.

• Track Time and Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

• Music on Main: The Point at Heritage Square Park 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 7 p.m., free.

Friday, April 17

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• “You be the Judge” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 12:30-1:30 p.m., free, ages 13 and up.

• Karaoke Night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• “Purrfectly Stitched” Beginner Friendly Embroidery Workshop with Good Bones Arts at Curio Mrvosa Books and More, 114 N. Main St., Taylor. 6:30-8:30 p.m., $45. Register at https://tinyurl.com/4usrv4fp.

• Sad Hour with Kelley McRae at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10, all ages.

• The Other Band at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, April 18

• Baby Animal Days at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tickets: https://www.sweeteats.com/.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• “Baked Cookies and Wine” event at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 2-4 p.m. Tickets at huttowinebar.com.

• “Dungeons & Dragons One-Shot Adventure” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S.

79, Hutto, 3-7 p.m. Tickets: $25; visit https:// www.thestoryemporiumandbookshop.com/ events/dd-one-shot-adventure-segzm.

• Movie Night: “Get Carter” with Michael Caine hosted by the Taylor Film Society at Dickey-Givens Community Center, 1015 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Taylor, 7 p.m., free.

• “Honky Tonk Night” with Western Darlin’ and Mix Tape at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., free, ages 18 and up.

“Deliberately Diverse” represents the individual thoughts of Taylor friends who never completely agree about anything but enjoy diverse discussions.

For many Jews, Passover is the most enjoyable holiday in our Jewish calendar. In 2026, the holiday runs from Wednesday night, April 1, to sundown on Thursday, April 9.

Why is Passover so memorable?

It celebrates our deliverance from slavery more than 3,300 years ago. The authority for the holiday comes from Chapter 12 of the biblical Book of Exodus. This describes how God passed over Egypt, striking down all the firstborn, except those in dwellings marked with lamb’s blood on the lintels of the door.

Exodus 12:14-15 directs the holiday, saying, “This day shall be for you one of remembrance as a festival to your God throughout the ages; you shall celebrate it as an institution for all time. For seven days you shall eat unleavened bread.”

Surprisingly, the Book of Exodus is not read during the celebration.

During the festive meal on the first two nights, we read from a book called a Haggadah (plural Haggadot). This means “telling” in Hebrew. It covers the liberation story read during the Seder, the ritual meal. It would seem that every Haggadah would be the same, but that isn’t the case. Some parts are customary.

There is a Seder plate with a roasted shank bone, bitter herbs and spring greens. There is covered matzah, the unleavened bread. Four cups of wine or grape juice will be served during the ceremony. All Haggadot remind us to regard liberation as our own redemption from slavery as the Haggadah says, “If the Lord your God had not brought Israel out from the land of bondage, you, your children and your children’s children might still be enslaved.”

Another standard item is that Moses, the great leader of the Exodus, is rarely mentioned. This is to remind us the true liberator is God. As mentioned above, there isn’t an official Haggadah. In America, there are many hundreds of versions. They not only reflect different congregations from Orthodox to Reform, but different eras, politics and more. And since they are used only two nights a year, many families use old ones for the treasured memories of family Seders. Others get new Haggadot that reflect modern experiences.

In the 1960s, some Haggadot emphasized the plight of Russian Jews. Others supported the Civil Rights movement. There are now feminist versions, Gay Pride versions, and more that address most of the political spectrum. There are even very traditional Haggadot to choose

from. The oldest complete Haggadah was created in Spain around 1350 C.E., while fragmentary ones date from the 10th century, or 900-999 C.E.

Almost all Haggadot end with “next year in Jerusalem.”

Sorrow is a Taylor resident and has been active with the Taylor Conservation and Heritage Society.

• Harold Fischer, Taylor

• Janie Barron, Pflugerville

• Mark Urbis, Taylor

• Toni Morrison, Burnet

• Barbara Ewling, Thrall

• Glenda Stence, Taylor

• Mary Jane Pustejovsky, Taylor

• Carolyn Kerlin, Taylor

• Donna Frazier, Taylor • John Day, Taylor

• Jacqueline Wilkins, Granger

• Rustin Darter, Taylor

• Archie Moczygemba, Taylor

• Romadene Mohel, Taylor

• Dr Robert Kunisch, Taylor

• Danny Potts, Taylor

• Wallace Gootman, Taylor

• Bob Schier, Elgin

Deliberately Diverse represents the individual opinions of a group of Taylor friends who never completely agree about anything but enjoy diverse discussions.

In his letter to the Romans, Paul writes, “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”

My childish understanding of this was that if you want the stuff of the world — wealth, power, waffle cakes and kittens — you will go to Hell or die (depending on who was talking). So you better just sit still and think about God.

Of course, I am not very good at sitting still and I love waffle cakes. It seemed to me I was doomed.

But Paul also said in the First Letter to the Corinthians, “When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I understood like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways.”

So perhaps childish understanding of Paul’s meaning can be updated with adult reasoning.

The word in Romans translated from the Greek as “mind” is phronēma.

Phronēma refers to a person’s perspective that shapes how they see and respond to life in the world. We have all encountered people whose perspective about what to expect in life is negative; the ones who, like Chicken Little, are sure the sky is falling and cannot be convinced otherwise.

Paul urges us to adopt a Christ-patterned mindset by always seeking to see, interpret and respond to the world in the same ways Jesus Christ would see, interpret and respond.

In current turbulent and chaotic times, “living with the mind of Christ” — in other words, adopting Jesus’ perspective and humility — is a daunting task.

In Paul’s letters, phronēma is part of a word-group closely associated with the verb phroneō and the noun phronēsis. Paul urges us to reason together (phroneō) with the mindset or pattern of Christlike thinking and acting (phronēma).

Over time, that practice leads us to practical wisdom and prudence in our decision-making (phronēsis), to faithful and fruitful Christlike actions.

Reasoning together with the mindset of Christ is different from reasoning together with the mindset of our chosen political party, or with the mindset of Fox News or MS NOW. What is the mindset of Christ? He told us, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength… Love your neighbor as yourself.”

When our actions are guided by love of our neighbor, we begin to see where God is creating new and abundant life through our actions. We become cultivators of life and peace in ourselves and in the world.

Credit to John Lewis and Jane Patterson, codirectors of St. Benedict’s Workshop, for the exegesis underlying this column.

Pierce is vicar of St. James’ Episcopal Church in Taylor and can be reached by email at ministry@ stjamestaylor.org.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St,. Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• “Wine Down Wednesday” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 5:45-6:45 p.m., free, ages 21 and up.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, March 5

• Chair yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

• Taylor Neighbors Coalition at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m., free, ages 18 and up.

Friday, March 6

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Mindfulness Art Workshop at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S.

79, Hutto, 6-7:15 p.m., details at www. thestoryemporiumandbookshop.com.

• Karaoke Night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Sterling Country at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

• Texas Zephyrs & Giddy Up Go at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10 at the door, ages 18 and up.

• Neal McCoy at Coupland Dancehall, 401Hoxie St., Coupland, doors open at 6 p.m. Ticket info at CouplandDancehall. com.

Saturday, March 7

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Record Pop-Up at Curio Mrvosa Books & More, 114 N. Main St., Taylor, noon-5 p.m.

• Teen Writing Group at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 1-2 p.m., free, ages 13-18.

• Author signing: Nikei S. Salas at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 2-5 p.m., free.

• “Paint & Pour Night” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 6-7 p.m. $30 per person, ages 21 and up.

• The Light Aluminum at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10 at the door, ages 18 and up.

Sunday, March 8 Daylight Saving Time Begins • Resume workshop for adults at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 2-4 p.m, details at www.thestoryemporiumandbookshop. com.

Monday, March 9

• Chair yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• “Moving Stories Monday” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 10:30 a.m. to -1:30 p.m. for ages 4–12, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for ages 13–18.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, March 10

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Wednesday, March 11

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Anime & Manga Club at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 5:30- 6:30 p.m., free, ages 13 and up.

• Sounds Bowls (ages 18 and up) & Sunshine Kids Club at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 6 p.m., free.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, March 12

• Chair yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• “Women Who Wander” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 6-8 p.m. free, RSVP at www. thestoryemporiumandbookshop.com.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Friday, March 13

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Monthly Book Club at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 5-6:30 p.m., free.

• Karaoke Night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Closing party for “100 Bucks Art Show” at Curio Mrvosa Book & More, 114 N. Main St., Taylor, 5-8 p.m.

• Robert Lawhorn & Triple Threat at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

• Steve Delopoulos at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., free, all ages.

• Asleep at the Wheel at Coupland Dancehall, 401Hoxie St., Coupland, doors open at 6 p.m. Ticketing info at CouplandDancehall.com

Saturday, March 14

• Downtown Taylor Community Alley Cleanup starting at 9 a.m.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• “Gilmore Girls Day” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., free.

• Middle Earth D&D Campaign (ages 18 and up) and Teen D&D One-Shot (ages 13-18) at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 1:30-5:30 p.m., details at www.thestoryemporiumandbookshop. com.

• Open Mic Night at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 6 p.m., free, all ages.

Sunday, March 15

• “Writing Talk: Turning Ideas Into a Book” at The Story Emporium & Bookshop, 202 U.S. 79, Hutto, 2-3:30 p.m., free, all ages.

• Meets noon Wednesday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Rotary Club

• Meets noon Thursday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Lions Club

• Meets noon Friday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Stitchin’ Time and Hooks & Needles • Meets 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., and 1:30-4 p.m. Fridays at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3505 N. Main St., Taylor. For more, call Dorothy at 512-914-1371.

Grief Support Group

• Meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays each month in the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor.

Are we missing your civic organization? Submit your group’s info to news@taylorpress.net or by calling 512-352-8535.

“Deliberately Diverse” represents the individual thoughts of Taylor friends who never completely agree about anything but enjoy diverse discussions.

“Old Nicodemus went calling/To see my Lordy one night./“Master, something is wrong with me./ My heart isn’t feeling right.”

— Mahalia Jackson

We encounter Nicodemus only in the Gospel of John but he appears three times.

First, he comes in the night to question Jesus about the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus tells him the way to the Kingdom of Heaven is to be transformed by the Spirit.

Jesus clarifies by saying, “No one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.”

What is water and Spirit? Jesus likely is referring to the Hebrew prophet Ezekiel to whom God promises to sprinkle clean water on Israel and put his Spirit within them. Jesus is saying to Nicodemus the promise of transformation and eternal life is fulfilled now, today, in the present time. Nicodemus, a Pharisee, represents the idea that learning, rulekeeping and religious status earn you a place with God. Not too different from those who hear Jesus prescribing a specific morality as the rules one must follow to enter the kingdom.

But Jesus is talking about something different — something that happens to you rather than something you can accomplish by following the rules and doing what a pastor says and condemning those who don’t hear Jesus in the same way you do.

The spirit is like the wind, the breath, sweeping across the face of the waters in the first chapter of Genesis.

In John, Jesus says, “The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes.”

You can’t control or fully understand Spirit; you only see its effects.

Transformation is mysterious and sovereign, occurring when we place our trust in Jesus. It cannot be mechanically produced by our actions.

Later, Nicodemus witnesses a confrontation between the Pharisees and Jesus. And Nicodemus speaks up, “Does our law condemn a man without first hearing him to find out what he has been doing?” He doesn’t say, “Jesus is right.” He doesn’t confess faith. But he pushes back against his own colleagues and he is ridiculed.

At the end, when Jesus has been crucified, Nicodemus appears again. He comes “bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about 75 pounds.”

Nicodemus is no longer coming in darkness.

He makes a public act.

You cannot transport 75 pounds of spice in secret. Nicodemus comes to anoint the man, condemned by his colleagues and crucified by the Roman authorities.

Nicodemus is transformed not by his own acts or words. He is transformed by Spirit that breathes into his life the trust to stand with Jesus regardless of the ridicule of his neighbors or the danger presented by the imperial authorities.

How will Spirit work in your life?

Pierce is vicar of St.

James’ Episcopal Church in Taylor and can be reached by email at ministry@ stjamestaylor.org.

“Deliberately Diverse” represents the individual thoughts of Taylor friends who never completely agree about anything but enjoy diverse discussions.

“Old Nicodemus went calling/To see my Lordy one night./“Master, something is wrong with me./ My heart isn’t feeling right.”

— Mahalia Jackson

We encounter Nicodemus only in the Gospel of John but he appears three times.

First, he comes in the night to question Jesus about the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus tells him the way to the Kingdom of Heaven is to be transformed by the Spirit.

Jesus clarifies by saying, “No one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.”

What is water and Spirit? Jesus likely is referring to the Hebrew prophet Ezekiel to whom God promises to sprinkle clean water on Israel and put his Spirit within them. Jesus is saying to Nicodemus the promise of transformation and eternal life is fulfilled now, today, in the present time. Nicodemus, a Pharisee, represents the idea that learning, rulekeeping and religious status earn you a place with God. Not too different from those who hear Jesus prescribing a specific morality as the rules one must follow to enter the kingdom.

But Jesus is talking about something different — something that happens to you rather than something you can accomplish by following the rules and doing what a pastor says and condemning those who don’t hear Jesus in the same way you do.

The spirit is like the wind, the breath, sweeping across the face of the waters in the first chapter of Genesis.

In John, Jesus says, “The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes.”

You can’t control or fully understand Spirit; you only see its effects.

Transformation is mysterious and sovereign, occurring when we place our trust in Jesus. It cannot be mechanically produced by our actions.

Later, Nicodemus witnesses a confrontation between the Pharisees and Jesus. And Nicodemus speaks up, “Does our law condemn a man without first hearing him to find out what he has been doing?” He doesn’t say, “Jesus is right.” He doesn’t confess faith. But he pushes back against his own colleagues and he is ridiculed.

At the end, when Jesus has been crucified, Nicodemus appears again. He comes “bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about 75 pounds.”

Nicodemus is no longer coming in darkness.

He makes a public act.

You cannot transport 75 pounds of spice in secret. Nicodemus comes to anoint the man, condemned by his colleagues and crucified by the Roman authorities.

Nicodemus is transformed not by his own acts or words. He is transformed by Spirit that breathes into his life the trust to stand with Jesus regardless of the ridicule of his neighbors or the danger presented by the imperial authorities.

How will Spirit work in your life?

Pierce is vicar of St.

James’ Episcopal Church in Taylor and can be reached by email at ministry@ stjamestaylor.org.

Deliberately Diverse represents the individual

thoughts of Taylor friends who never completely agree about anything but enjoy diverse discussions. “Then Moses went up on the mountain, and the cloud covered the mountain. The glory of the Lord settled on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days; on the seventh day he called to Moses out of the cloud.” — Exodus 24:15-16, about 1,400 years before Christ “Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain, by themselves. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his clothes became dazzling white. … While he was still speaking, suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, “This is my Son, the beloved; with him I am well pleased; listen to him!”

— Matthew 17: 1-2, 5; early in the first century of the common era “Well, I don’t know what will happen now.

We’ve got some difficult days ahead. But it really doesn’t matter with me now, because I’ve been to the mountaintop.

And I don’t mind. Like anybody, I would like to live a long life. Longevity has its place. But I’m not concerned about that now. I just want to do God’s will. And he’s allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I’ve looked over. And I’ve seen the Promised Land.

I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we, as a people, will get to the Promised Land!” –– Martin Luther King Jr., April 3, 1968, Memphis, Tennessee Fifty-seven years later, we find ourselves in the midst of another chaos of human-making. It is a chaos born of racism, injustice and our hardened hearts toward our brothers and sisters.

Martin Luther King Jr. spoke of the mountaintop where we are called to stand in the presence of the glory of God; where Moses stood and where Jesus stood.

Jesus didn’t call us to spend our lives being good so that we might die and go to the Promised Land.

Jesus called us to spend our lives bringing the Promised Land into the here and now for all of God’s creation.

Jesus told us to love God and to love our neighbor.

He did not say, “Love your Christian neighbor” or “Love your neighbor who lives in a house like yours and has the same skin color and agrees with your politics.”

Jesus said, “Love your neighbor.”

Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35).

Pierce is the vicar of St. James’ Episcopal Church in Taylor and can be reached at ministry@stjamestaylor.org.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Feb. 12

• Chair yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• Chair massage at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m.

• Moody Museum Valentine’s Day Gala benefitting the Dan Moody Statue at the Dan Moody Museum, 114 W. Ninth St., Taylor, 4-8 p.m.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Friday, Feb. 13

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Karaoke Night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• “Birdsong: Reverence A Return to Innocence” opening at the McCrory Timmerman Gallery, 201 N. Main St., Taylor, 6 p.m.

• “Don’t Tell Comedy” at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m.

Tickets: $25 at the door, ages 21 and up.

• The Other Band at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Feb. 14 Valentine’s Day • Volunteer Income Tax Assistance at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9 a.m., free.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Second Saturday Historic Downtown Walking Tour, starting at 10 a.m., Taylor.

• Youth Basketball Game at Taylor Middle School Gym, 304 Carlos G. Parker Blvd.

N.W., Taylor. For more, visit https://taylortx. gov/1112/Youth-Sports-Leagues.

• Open Mic: “Valentine’s Addition” at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 6-10 p.m., free, all ages.

• Rick Trevino & Valentine’s dinner at Coupland Dance Hall, 101 Hoxie St., Coupland. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $27.82; https:// www.etix.com/ticket/p/61000973/ricktrevino- coupland-coupland-dancehall.

Monday, Feb. 16 Presidents’ Day • Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, Feb. 17

• Senior Tech Class at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10 a.m., free.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Homeschool Hangout at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 1 p.m., free.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• “Date Night: Painting Roulette” at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 6 p.m.

• Greater Taylor Chamber of Commerce Annual Celebration & Awards banquet at Williamson County Expo Center, 5350 Bill Pickett Trail, Taylor, 5-10 p.m., $40 per person. For more, visit www.taylorchamber.org/.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Wednesday, Feb. 18

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Feb. 19

• Chair yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• Chair massage at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

• Line dancing & lessons at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 20

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 2 p.m., free.

• STEAM Challenge at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 4:30 p.m., free.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Karaoke Night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Justice at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Feb. 21

• Volunteer Income Tax Assistance at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9 a.m., free.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• “Make and Take Craft: Flowers” at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• Youth Basketball Game at Taylor Middle School Gym, 304 Carlos G. Parker Blvd N.W., Taylor. For more, visit https://taylortx. gov/1112/Youth-Sports-Leagues.

• Dance Party at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m. free, ages 18 and up.

• Dale Watson and His Lone Stars at Coupland Dancehall, 101 Hoxie St., Coupland, Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $25.75; https:// www.etix.com/ticket/p/64170176/dalewatson- coupland-coupland-dancehall

Monday, Feb. 23

• Chair yoga at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 9:30 a.m., free.

• Grief support at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., free.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, Feb. 24

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Teen Writers Circle at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 4:30 p.m., free.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Silent Book Club at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., free.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Wednesday, Feb. 25

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m, free, all ages.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

• Meets noon Wednesday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Rotary Club

• Meets noon Thursday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Lions Club

• Meets noon Friday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Stitchin’ Time and Hooks & Needles • Meets 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., and 1:30-4 p.m. Fridays at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3505 N. Main St., Taylor. For more, call Dorothy at 512-914-1371.

Grief Support Group

• Meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays each month in the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor.

Are we missing your civic organization? Submit your group’s info to news@taylorpress.net or by calling 512-352-8535.

“A grandmother’s kitchen — where memories are seasoned with love.”

— author unknown

“Just like Sunday dinner at Granny’s house” was my first thought last week at the Lions Club, where fried chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, corn and hot rolls were served up for the civicclub luncheon.

Any meal my father’s mother cooked on any day of the week was the equivalent of Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner combined. I cherish the festive childhood memories of meals at her house that sadly ceased after my grandfather died. And meals like last week’s Lion’s lunch still remind me of those family gatherings like it was yesterday.

That’s a yesterday when meals were mostly enjoyed at home. The family sat down together to eat.

No phones. No television. Fast food was yet to replace home cooking, TV dinners were still trendy and eating out somewhere other than the bus-stop cafe or the truck stop out on the highway was a rare treat.

It was a time when Mom’s meals on the table coincided with Dad’s arrival from work. You could set your watch by it, back when we wore watches that needed to be set.

Those were yesterdays when being in your seat at the dinner table was a request not open to debate.

And failure to comply meant you’d better be so badly incapacitated that walking to the table was not physically possible.

Also not debatable was deciding whether Mom’s meal suited your taste buds. You ate what was on the table without question or comment. Unless you were saying how good everything tasted … including that nasty liver.

Although it was the age of “eat what your momma put on the table,” there was no way even the pickiest eater was going to leave the table hungry.

And that went double for Sunday dinner at Granny’s.

The table that occupied my grandmother’s dining room, which now sits in mine, was the center of many meals. Common fare was fried chicken or ham, often both. Baked chicken and dressing were usually holiday delights. The meal also included mashed potatoes covered with cream gravy, steaming corn on the cob and hot rolls waiting to be buttered.

Plates were piled high, but not so high that the aroma of fresh-baked pie coming from the kitchen failed to remind you to save room for dessert.

For most grandmothers, including mine, cooking was a labor of love. Meals were prepared without a single recipe.

Ingredients were blended with just a dash of this, a pinch of that and a lot of love. Everything came together at the same time, which was no small feat considering Granny could have a meal on the table and not miss a Sunday service sitting in her pew at the Pittsburg Methodist Church.

As a child, I never knew she accomplished miracles by spending hours in the kitchen Saturday night and Sunday morning before worship. I thought the plate I sat down to was just another measure of “grandmother’s meal magic.”

Watching her prepare a meal (if we promised not to get in the way) was more than magic. It was controlled, coordinated chaos — prepping chicken for the oven, mixing the dressing, peeling potatoes and pulling husks off the ears of corn. Her hands moved with the precision of a symphony orchestra conductor.

To this day, I don’t know how she did it.

But when we heard, “Y’all come on, it’s ready,” the chicken was moist and perfect. The potatoes were fresh and creamy, waiting for gravy. And the corn? Dripping with butter, ready to savor every bite, row by row.

And then the most amazing thing happened. Once the blessing was offered and bowls started around the table, Granny wiped her hands on her apron, sat down and ate nothing. Just visited and waited on everyone else.

Honestly, meals today are still out-ofthis- world good. So why do we long for those Sunday dinners at Granny’s house?

Some insist the food really was better.

Others say it was the tradition of gathering the family, not as common today as it once was.

I’m saying it’s a little of both — seasoned with a little love.

But while we debate this issue, could you pass me another piece of chicken … please?

Contact Aldridge at leonaldridge@gmail. com. Other Aldridge columns are archived at leonaldridge.com.

• Douglas Haverland, Taylor

• Agnes Makek, Austin

• Ron Bishop, Taylor

• Nadine Johnson, Hutto • Ronnie Kruse, Taylor

• Joyce Patschke, Thrall

• Karen Ellis , Taylor

• Terry Czimskey, Taylor

If you wish to subscribe to the Taylor Press print and digital editions, plus get great stories and features in the monthly East Wilco Insider and special publications, call 512-352-8535 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3–7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

• Taylor Neighborhood Coalition at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m., free, ages 18 and up.

Thursday, Dec. 4

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

• Line-dancing lessons at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 5

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Open jam at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., free, all ages.

• Second Hand Rose at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Dec. 6

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Mistletoe Market at McCrory Timmerman lobby, 201 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Christmas Vendor Village at Heritage Square Park, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., free.

• Pet Portraits with Santa by Texas Critter Crusaders at Heritage Square Park, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 3-6 p.m., donations accepted.

• Hutto Holiday Market & Drone Show at Adam Orgain Park, 1001 CR 137, Hutto, 5-9 p.m., free.

• Taylor Christmas Parade and tree lighting on downtown Taylor’s Main Street, 6-9 p.m., free.

• Stevie Tombstone and Duck Buford at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10, ages 18 and up.

Sunday, Dec. 7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

Monday, Dec. 8

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m., donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, Dec. 9

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time and Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Wednesday, Dec. 10

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Dec. 11

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m. $5

• Track Time by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Friday, Dec. 12

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Backroads Band at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

• Chubby Knuckle Choir at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $8, ages 18 and up.

Saturday, Dec. 13

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Second Saturday in downtown Taylor, all-day event.

• Historic Downtown Walking Tour starting from Curbside Coffee, 114 W. Second St., Taylor, 10-11:30 a.m.

• Taylor Conservation and Heritage Society Tour of Homes from 1-5 p.m., $25 at the door. For more, visit www.facebook. com/taylorheritagesociety.org/.

• Hippo Claus Crawl in downtown Hutto, 5-9 p.m., tickets start at $25. For more, visitconnect.huttotx. gov/huttotx/218539?utm_ source=bewith&utm_ medium=calendar. Ages 21 and up.

• Open Mic Night at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 6 p.m., free, all ages.

Sunday, Dec. 14

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Christmas Cookie Swap at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 11 a.m., free.

• Taylor Conservation and Heritage Society Tour of Homes from 1-5 p.m., $25 at the door. For more, visit www.facebook. com/taylorheritagesociety.org/.

• Meets the first and third Wednesday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Rotary Club

• Meets noon Thursday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Lions Club

• Meets noon Friday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Stitchin’ Time and Hooks & Needles • Meets 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., and 1:30-4 p.m. Fridays at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3505 N. Main St., Taylor. For more, call Dorothy at 512-914-1371.

Grief Support Group

• Meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays each month in the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor.

Are we missing your civic organization? Submit your group’s info to news@taylorpress. net or by calling 512-352-8535.

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Shop Small Saturday in downtown Taylor.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway, Zion Chapel Baptist Church, 612 E. Walnut St., Taylor, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., free.

• Dale & Waylon at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10, 18 and up.

Sunday, Nov. 23

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

Monday, Nov. 24

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Zumba by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m., donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, Nov. 25

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Wednesday, Nov. 26

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Nov. 27 Thanksgiving • Open Mic Night at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Thanksgiving at the Sparrow at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, noon to 3 p.m., free, all welcome.

Friday, Nov. 28

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 29

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

Sunday, Nov. 30

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

December Monday, Dec. 1

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m., donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, Dec. 2

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time and Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

• Storytelling at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m., free, ages 18 and up.

Wednesday, Dec. 3

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3–7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

• Taylor Neighborhood Coalition at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m., free, ages 18 and up.

Thursday, Dec. 4

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Butts ’N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

• Line-dancing lessons at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 5

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke night and pool tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Open jam at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., free, all ages.

• Second Hand Rose at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Dec. 6

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown, general admission ages 2 and older, starts at $20.95.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Mistletoe Market at McCrory Timmerman lobby, 201 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Christmas Vendor Village at Heritage Square Park, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., free.

• Pet Portraits with Santa by Texas Critter Crusaders at Heritage Square Park, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 3-6 p.m., donations accepted.

• Hutto Holiday Market & Drone Show at Adam Orgain Park, 1001 CR 137, Hutto, 5-9 p.m., free.

• Taylor Christmas Parade and tree lighting on downtown Taylor’s Main Street, 6-9 p.m., free.

• Stevie Tombstone and Duck Buford at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10, ages 18 and up.

Deliberately Diverse represents the individual opinions of a group of Taylor friends who never completely agree about anything but enjoy diverse discussions.

I was making a “gratitude list” for Thanksgiving with the idea of resetting myself from worrying about all the details and all the things that can go wrong over the holidays to being in a state of peace and joy about all that is good in my life.

In theory, that seems like a great plan. In practice, it pushes me towards a “toxic” state of gratitude.

What is that? Susie Moore, a British life coach, author and host of the top-rated podcast “Let It Be Easy,” says, “When we feel obliged to feel thankful constantly, which is inevitable as the gratitude-packed holidays descend upon us, it can be easy to minimize some of our true feelings and overlook our needs. The pressure to look around and appreciate what we have — whether it’s something we want or not — can act as a blindfold or Band-Aid over what needs to change for you to find peace and happiness.”

Gratitude and Thanksgiving do go together.

Feeling grateful leads to giving thanks, and the act of thanksgiving can deepen your sense of gratitude. Many spiritual and philosophical traditions see thanksgiving as important precisely because it transforms private gratitude into something relational and shared, strengthening connections with others or with the divine.

At the same time, many of us have experienced difficulties around the holidays: loneliness, estrangement from family or friends and disappointment when expectations aren’t met.

This year I am grieving the loss of family members and the absence of traditions, even those traditions that didn’t always delight me. That ambivalence can be a barrier to gratitude.

How do I cope with the mixture of feelings?

For me, the first step is acknowledging the ambivalence: “I dread Thanksgiving because holidays remind me of feeling like I didn’t fit anywhere or couldn’t do anything right.” “I am angry because my sister never says thank you for what I do and always has something more for me to do.” “I don’t have family to spend time with this holiday and I am sad about that.”

Moore quotes an anonymous source who said, “Gratitude should not silence your pain or diminish your needs. True gratitude grows alongside self-awareness, not at the expense of it.”

When I am aware of what I am feeling, I can make choices that meet my needs. Sometimes knowing what I’m feeling allows me to be present in a situation without being triggered or to quietly remove myself from uncomfortable conversations. When gratitude and self-awareness can thrive together, I can be truly thankful.

If you want to share the holidays, join us at St. James’ Episcopal Church, 612 Davis St. in Taylor, for lunch on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day at 12:30 p.m.

Everyone is welcome.

Pierce is the vicar of St. James’ Episcopal Church in Taylor and can be reached by email at ministry@ stjamestaylor.org.

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Thanksgiving Recipe Swap at Hayley’s Grains, 100 E. Second St., Taylor, all day.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W Live Oak St, Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Nov. 20

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Open Mic Night at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Butts ‘N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

• Creature Group Art Show Closing Reception at Every Time Institute, 410 W. Seventh St., Room 203, Taylor, 7-9 p.m., free.

• Music on Main: All Hat No Cadillac at Taylor Heritage Square, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 7-9 p.m., free.

Friday, Nov. 21

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Old Friends at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

• Richard Sanguinetti at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., free, ages 18 and up.

Saturday, Nov. 22

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Shop Small Saturday in downtown Taylor.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway, Zion Chapel Baptist Church, 612 E. Walnut St., Taylor, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., free.

• Dale & Waylon at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10, 18 and up.

Sunday, Nov. 23

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

Monday, Nov. 24

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Zumba by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m., donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, Nov. 25

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time & Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Wednesday, Nov. 26

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Nov. 27 Thanksgiving • Open Mic Night at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Thanksgiving at the Sparrow at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W.

Second St., Taylor, noon to 3 p.m., free, all welcome.

Friday, Nov. 28

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 29

• Christmas at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E.

Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

Sunday, Nov. 30

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

DECEMBER Monday, Dec. 1

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Zumba by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m., donation: $15, ages 18 and up.

Tuesday, Dec. 2

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time and Walk to Run by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

• Storytelling at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m., Free, 18+

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

• Taylor Neighborhood Coalition Meeting at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W.

Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 6

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Open Mic Night at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Butts ‘N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $12.

Friday, Nov. 7

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger, doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Sterling Country at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

• Open Jam at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m.

• Aaron Watson at Old Coupland Inn and Dancehall, 101 Hoxie St., Coupland, 8:30 p.m., tickets at CouplandDancehall.com.

• Family Camp Out at Brushy Creek Amphitheater, 1001 CR 137, Hutto.

Saturday, Nov. 8

• Davilla Christmas Bazaar, Davilla Community Center, 20803 FM 487, Davilla, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Dinosaur Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission, ages 2 and up, starts at $20.95.

• Arbor Day at Bull Branch Park, 904 Dellinger Drive, Taylor, 9 a.m.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• November Second Saturday in downtown Taylor.

• Historic Downtown Walking Tour starting from Ripple & Rose Cafe, 109 W. Third St., Taylor, 10-11:30 a.m.

• Open Mic Night at the Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m.

Are we missing your civic organization? Submit your group’s info to news@taylorpress. net or by calling 512-352-8535.

I’m a discipleship guy.

Why? Because, without it, there’s little to no Christian transformation and the beautiful things it brings. So, I’m all about change and spiritual growth — mine and yours.

But what is basic discipleship and how can we be fruitful as we do it?

And what do we do when it’s not working out?

First, discipleship is about imitation: presenting something worth imitating and mimicking what is seen and heard.

Jesus taught, modeled what he taught, tested, corrected and sent as he led his followers. He gave his disciples something good to imitate. Then, they did what Jesus did.

Here’s an example from nearly 2,000 years ago, written by the apostle Paul to the Church in Thessalonica: “You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia.” (Thessalonians 1:6) Second, discipleship can be messy. It occurs when we walk with someone at their rhythm of life; their and our discipleship and spiritual growth must never stop. The disciple-discipler relationship develops the trust needed to share struggles, woes and joys.

Importantly, authentic discipleship ensures that you observe a disciple’s behavior and are prepared to answer questions or offer correction.

This is where it can get messy. But discipleship doesn’t happen

without it. Third, discipleship isn’t for everyone, and most of these relationships will fail. Why?

Most likely due to a lack of devotion to God or the discipleship process, which can be tough.

So, what should you do if this happens as you engage in discipleship?

Setting clear expectations about mandatory devotion to God and the discipleship relationship is essential. Then, hold the disciple accountable.

But if they aren’t growing, showing up, studying, etc., it might be time to “cut bait.” Ditch the spiritual dead weight and move on.

“But Ron, the disciple is my friend. Are you saying I must end the friendship?” Absolutely not.

Keep that relationship but focus your discipleship efforts elsewhere.

Jesus addressed this in Mark 6:7-13: “And he summoned the 12 and began to send them out in pairs, and gave them authority over the unclean spirits ... And he said to them, ‘Wherever you enter a house, stay there until you leave town. Any place that does not receive you or listen to you, as you go out from there, shake the dust off the soles of your feet for a testimony against them.’ They went out and preached that men should repent. …” To recap, discipleship is about your speech and example, as well as others imitating what they hear and see. So, be someone worth imitating. And don’t get stuck in a dead-end discipleship relationship. There’s plenty for you to do, so move forward.

Next week? You’ll finally meet two inspiring third-century martyrs worth imitating: Perpetua and Felicitas.

Blessings and peace.

Braley, a locally based minister, Air Force veteran, husband and father, earned a Master of Divinity degree from Regent University in 2018 and a Doctor of Ministry from the same school in 2021.

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and older starts at $20.95.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free, all ages.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Crafty Corner at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 5-6:30 p.m. Ages: 18 and up.

• Blind Date with A Book with Hutto Public Library at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 7-7:30 p.m., free to attend, book: $5.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Oct. 30

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and older starts at $20.95.

• Adult Book Club: “Silverview” by John le Carre at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

• Open Mic Night at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Butts ‘N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

Friday, Oct. 31 Halloween

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and older starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Friday Frights Face Painting & Spooky Stories on the Patio at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 4-5 p.m.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Spooktacular Scare on the Square at Heritage Square Park, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 6-8 p.m., free candy and costume contest.

• Live Music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• “Urban Cowboy” Halloween Dress Up Party at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 7-9 p.m.

• Dan Whitaker Band at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Nov. 1

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and older starts at $20.95.

• Hilma af Klint Master Study Class at Every Time Institute, 410 W. Seventh St., Room 203, Taylor, 1:30-4 p.m., $100. Tickets: everytimeinstitute. com.

• Women’s Conference, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., The First Baptist Church, 300 N. Robinson St., Taylor.

Sunday, Nov. 2

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and older starts at $20.95.

Monday, Nov. 3

Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission ages 2 and older starts at $20.95.

• Zumba by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Donation: $15. Ages: 18 and up.

Tuesday, Nov. 4

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and older starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

Wednesday, Nov. 5

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and older starts at $20.95.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Preschool Storytime at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St, Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free. All ages.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St, Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Curio Mrvosa Book Gang at Curio Mrvosa Books and More, 114 N. Main St., Taylor. 4-6 p.m., free.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

• Taylor Neighborhood Coalition at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m., free.

Thursday, Oct. 9

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Open Mic Night at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Butts ‘N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Open Mic Night with Perry Savard at Power Brewing Project, 3333 CR 119, Suite 130, Hutto, 7-9 p.m.

• Creature Group Art Show Opening at Every Time Institute, 410 W. Seventh St., Room 203, Taylor, 7-9 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 10

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Rec, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Live Music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Cumbia dance lessons at Heritage Square, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 7 p.m., free.

• Texas Neon Ramblers at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Oc. 11

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown. General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Good Life Taylor 5K at Bull Branch Park, 904 Dellinger Drive, Taylor, starts at 8 a.m. Register: http://www.goodlifetaylor.com/.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Historic Downtown Walking Tour starting from Haciendo Coffee Roasters, 116 W. Sixth St., Taylor, 10-11:30 a.m.

• Lioness Book Pop Up at Power Brewing Project, 3333 CR 119, Suite 130, Hutto, 2-8 p.m.

•¡Fiesta Taylor! Artisanal Tequila and Music at Old Taylor High, 410 W. Seventh St., Taylor, 4-10 p.m., $75. Tickets: https://www.taylorchamber. org/fiesta-taylor-tx-tequila-music/.

• Open Mic Night at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 6 p.m. All ages.

Sunday, Oct. 12

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free. All ages.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Oct. 2

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Butts ‘N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

Friday, Oct. 3

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Wine Tasting Event: Casas del Bosque of Chile at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6-7:30 p.m.Tickets: $25 at www. huttowinebar.com. Ages: 21 and up.

• Live Music at Hutto Wine Bar, 105 East St., Hutto, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

• Second Hand Rose at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Oct. 4

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N. Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• SKULLastic Book Fair presented by Curio Mrvosa Books and More at Texas Beer Co., 1331 W. Second St., Taylor, 5-8 p.m., free.

• Not Past 11 at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10. Ages: 18 and up.

Sunday, Oct. 5

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Pottery Wheel Class 6 of 6 at Art Off Center, 116 W. Second St., Suite 108, Taylor, noon to 2:30 p.m. $380 Registration: https://artoffcenter.com/ calendar/.

• Banned Books Week Read-In at Curio Mrvosa Books and More, 114 N Main St., Taylor, free.

Monday, Oct. 6

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Wheel & Handbuilding Basics Class 6 of 6 at Art Off Center, 116 W. Second St., Suite 108, Taylor, noon to 3 p.m., $380.

Registration: https://artoffcenter.com/ calendar/.

• Zumba by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m. Free for Hispanic Heritage Month.

• Sketch Club at Atelier 95, 311 N. Main St., Taylor, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Donation: $15.

Ages: 18 and up.

Tuesday, Oct. 7

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Show & Tell at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., free. Ages: 18 and up.

Wednesday, Oct. 8

• Georgetown Fall Festival at Sweet Eats Farm, 14400 E. Texas 29, Georgetown.

General admission ages 2 and up starts at $20.95.

• Storytime at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St, Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free. All ages.

• Senior Social at Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St, Taylor, 10:30 a.m., free.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Curio Mrvosa Book Gang at Curio Mrvosa Books and More, 114 N. Main St., Taylor.

4-6 p.m., free.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

• Taylor Neighborhood Coalition at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m., free.

“Deliberately Diverse” represents the opinions of Taylor friends who almost never completely agree but are gratified by the opportunity to share and appreciate different viewpoints.

Next to Shabbat, Yom Kippur is the highest holy day in the Jewish calendar.

This year, it starts at sundown on Wednesday, Oct. 1, and ends when the third star comes out on Thursday, Oct. 2.

So why do we atone? Because Leviticus 23:2728 says: “Mark the tenth day of the seventh month as the Day of Atonement. It shall be a sacred occasion for you: You shall practice self-denial, and you shall bring an offering by fire to the Lord; you shall do no work throughout that day. For it is a Day of Atonement on which expiation is made on your behalf before the Lord your God.”

With the destruction of the Temple in 70 C.E., sacrifices could no longer be made, so the rabbis and sages substituted the repentance, charity and prayer instead.

The traditional belief is that during Rosh Hashanah (New Year), which occurs nine days before Yom Kippur, God judges us to decide our fate.

He then records it in the Book of Life. At sundown on Yom Kippur, he seals the Book of Life.

Many liberal branches of Judaism consider this a metaphor. But we feel it is important to take at least one day a year to evaluate our behavior and ask God’s help in doing better.

As a beautiful prayer says, “May the source of strength help us find the courage to make our lives a blessing.”

One of the most poignant prayers in our liturgy is sung at sundown on the eve of Yom Kippur. It is called “Kol Nidre” which means “All Vows.”

It is the annulment of the prior year’s vows to God. It is thought to date to the sixth century in Spain.

The interesting thing is that it does not annul vows to other people. Those remain in effect.

It is in the days between New Year and the Day of Atonement when we pray and repent, especially of acts and speech that harmed others. The teaching is that we must try to redress wrongs committed to others and that God cannot forgive those sins unless we have redressed them.

Besides repentance, charity and prayer, how else is the holiday celebrated?

If one’s health allows it, we abstain from all food and drink of any kind for 25 hours.

Other ways of practicing self-denial include not using fragrances, not wearing leather shoes and forgoing intimate relations. It is customary to wish each other a good fast.

In Rosh Hashanah we wish everyone that they are inscribed for a good year. At Yom Kippur we say, “May you be sealed for a good year.”

Sorrow is a longtime Taylor resident and an amateur historian.

Lydia Burow (right) talks to her best friend, Jerri Heap, during the former’s 100th birthday party Sept. 16.

• Preschool Play Time ages 3-6 at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m. to noon.

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Aug. 28

• Blood Drive, Thursday, Aug. 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance.

St. In partnership with We Are Blood.

Make an appointment at weareblood.org/ donor/schedule.

• One Time Sessions at Art Off Center, 116 W. Second St., Suite 108, Taylor, 1-2:30 p.m. and 6-7:30 p.m., $60. Registration: https://artoffcenter.com/calendar/.

• Open Mic Night at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Butts ‘N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

Friday, Aug. 29

• Senior Fit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 11 a.m., $5.

• Baby/Toddler Play Time at Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 11 a.m. to noon.

• Silos Farmers Market at The Cotton Gin, 106 Co-Op Blvd., Hutto, 4-8 p.m., free.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Glen Collins at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Aug. 30

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Pottery Wheel Class 1 of 6 at Art Off Center, 116 W. Second St., Suite 108, Taylor, noon to 2:30 p.m., $380.

Registration: https://artoffcenter.com/ calendar/.

• Josh Ward and Gunnar Latham at Old Coupland Inn and Dancehall, 101 Hoxie St., Coupland. Doors open at 7 p.m., $23.50.

Tickets: https://tickets.holdmyticket.com/ tickets/443378.

Sunday, Aug. 31

• Wheel & Handbuilding Basics Class 1 of 6 at Art Off Center, 116 W. Second St., Suite 108, Taylor, noon to 3 p.m., $380.

Registration: https://artoffcenter.com/ calendar/.

Monday, Sept. 1 Labor Day Tuesday, Sept. 2

• Senior Fit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 10:30 a.m., $5.

• Intermediate Pottery Wheel Class 1 of 4 at Art Off Center, 116 W. Second St., Suite 108, Taylor, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., $285.

Registration: https://artoffcenter.com/ calendar/.

• Pilates by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

• Track Time by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department,1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

• Adult Show & Tell at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m.

Ages: 18 and up.

Wednesday, Sept. 3

• Hutto Farmers Market at 350 Ed Schmidt Blvd., Hutto, 3-7 p.m.

• LinkedIn Learning Workshop using your library card for free access and training at Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto. Ages: 13 and up.

• Neighborhood Coalition at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 7 p.m. Ages: 18 and up.

• Yoga by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6:30 p.m., $5.

Thursday, Sept. 4

• Open Mic Night at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Daddy Daughter Hair Tutorials at the Hutto Public Library, 500 W. Live Oak St., Hutto, 5:30-6:30 p.m.

• Butts ‘N’ Guts by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 6 p.m., $5.

Friday, Sept. 5

• SeniorFit by Taylor Parks and Recreation Department, 1412 Davis St., Taylor, 11 a.m., $5.

• Karaoke Night and Pool Tournament at Cotton Country Club, 212 E. Davilla St., Granger. Doors open at 5 p.m.

• Texas Neon Ramblers at SPJST Lodge 29, 5025 FM 619, Taylor, 7:30-11:30 p.m., free.

Saturday, Sept. 6

• Heritage Square Farmers Market, 400 N.

Main St., Taylor, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., free.

• Pottery Wheel Class 2 of 6 at Art Off Center, 116 W. Second St., Suite 108, Taylor, noon to 2:30 p.m., $380. Registration: https://artoffcenter.com/calendar/.

• Palook, Rooftop Boxer at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 8 p.m., $10.

• Jukebox Preachers at Old Coupland Inn and Dancehall, 101 Hoxie St., Coupland. Doors open at 7 p.m., $17.50. Tickets: https://tickets. holdmyticket.com/tickets/443558.

Sunday, Sept. 7

• Wheel & Handbuilding Basics Class 2 of 6 at Art Off Center, 116 W. Second St., Suite 108, Taylor, noon to 3 p.m., $380.

Registration: https://artoffcenter.com/ calendar/.

• Murder Ballad with Curio Mvrosa at Black Sparrow Music Parlor, 113 W. Second St., Taylor, 4:30 p.m.

• Meets noon Wednesday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Rotary Club

• Meets noon Thursday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Lions Club

• Meets noon Friday at Sirloin Stockade, 3607 N. Main St., Taylor.

Stitchin’ Time and Hooks & Needles • Meets 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., and 1:30-4 p.m. Fridays at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3505 N. Main St., Taylor. For more, call Dorothy at 512-914-1371.

Grief Support Group

• Meets at 6:30 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays each month in the Taylor Public Library, 801 Vance St., Taylor.

Are we missing your civic organization? Submit your group’s info to news@taylorpress.net or by calling 512-352-8535.

“Things that make you go ‘hmmm.’” — Arsenio Hall

Things that make you go, “Hmmmm…” include interesting and surprising turns of events and seemingly unrelated occurrences connecting in unexpected ways.

“You don’t know me, but I recognize you,” said the man approaching the table where I sat. “You look just like your picture.”

“Oh man,” I thought to myself. “Didn’t post offices stop displaying wanted posters a long time ago?”

We were both guests at a 50th weddinganniversary celebration in my hometown of Mount Pleasant a couple of weeks ago. He was a family member.

I was longtime friends with the celebrating couple.

“My name is Gerald Hampton,” he said.

“I read your column.

You look just like your photo.”

“Nice to meet you,” I said, standing to shake his hand. “I know another Gerald Hampton. From Naples.”

“I’ve heard of him,” the Gerald Hampton standing in front of me said. “But I’ve never met him.”

“Really nice guy,” I replied.

I continued the chat.

“You know, it’s funny that you recognized me from my picture,” I said. “I met a nice lady a few minutes ago who said she heard someone mention my name and wanted to tell me she reads my column. Then she added, ‘But you don’t look like your picture.’” We shared a chuckle. “Gerald Hampton in Naples is a really nice guy,” I added. “I met him many years ago, working my first newspaper job as a photographer and reporter at The Monitor newspaper in Naples.”

I sorted through old memories as I spoke.

“Gerald’s day job was a fireman at a plant near Texarkana,” I said. “It might have been the Lone Star Army Ammunition Plant. That one shut down some years ago.

“Gerald also had a sideline business as the local printer. He had a small shop just off Main Street back when almost every small town had someone that printed things like letterheads, business cards and invitations.

“He was a longtime good friend of Monitor publisher Morris Craig and was in the newspaper office on a regular basis. I want to think he and Craig may have also worked together at The Monitor when it was owned by Lee Narramore.”

My memories started to trail off, but I had one more recollection to share.

“I do know he was also a co-founder of The Printing Factory in Naples,” I said.

“I never met him,” the Titus County Hampton said. “But I’ve heard good things about him. And I do have a story about him. My wife asked me about a bill from Sears one evening some years ago. I told her I hadn’t bought anything from Sears recently, and she said, ‘Well, we got a bill from them for two bicycles.’” Hampton said when he checked with Sears, he learned it was the Naples Gerald Hampton who made the purchase that was mistakenly billed to their account.

The last time I saw the Naples Hampton, 20 years or more ago, he talked about how he and his wife were enjoying retirement, managing camp sites and entertaining campers with their bluegrass music.

My short visit with the Titus County Gerald Hampton taught me he was a lifelong educator. It didn’t take long to also learn about his congenial nature and his ease in getting to know people, very much like Morris County Gerald Hampton.

Shortly after that visit, however, I learned the Gerald Hampton I called friend from Naples had died just days before I met the Mount Pleasant Gerald Hampton.

I wondered how two Gerald Hamptons with similar personalities lived less than 20 miles apart and never met.

I also wondered about two people seeing the same picture and disagreeing on whether it resembled the person they were talking to.

You know, just things that make you go, “Hmmm!”

Contact Aldridge at leonaldridge@gmail. com. Other Aldridge columns are archived at leonaldridge.com.