A few days ago we had friends over for supper. This couple have been in our lives for over 30 years. Together we went through so many stages of our lives, building our families, our work, our history. Now, sitting around the table, we went down memory lane. Together we watched the church grow from 50 people to well over 1 000.

When the evening was over, I could not help but appreciate my roots.

Our family moved a lot. In 36 years of marriage my parents moved 36 times. I attended 11 different schools. The good news is that I survived. But because of my journey, I really value my roots. Places and people that give my life meaning.

The Bible often refers to the power of roots. “Forget not”, is a phrase that takes us back. Why not stop for a moment, step out of the rat race and reflect on your own roots. Count your blessings and appreciate life. Thank God for being part of your story. Appreciate all your blessings.

Often, as we think about our lives, my wife says, “It did not have to be like this”. So much could have happened that we had no control over. But God kept it together. So, as we look back, we count our blessings.

Family, friends, familiar things can give us hope as we face an uncertain future and many new challenges.

For me, Krugersdorp and, yes, the Krugersdorp News, are special parts of my root system.