We say goodbye to what was a tough year for most of us — tariffs, property taxes, high costs for basic goods, loss of loved ones and an unpredictable business environment. Some small businesses did not make it. We welcome the new year with anticipation and hope knowing that this year will be better than the last. As a sharecropper from Louisiana, I know faith can see us through any hardship. Faith is trust in God even though you cannot see or trace him.
I remember as a business owner, waking up one morning to find that my company was $76 million in debt. I did not know how the business was going to make it, and I could not cut my way to a balanced budget. It was a feeling that many people experience who have more bills than money. I surrendered all to God and continued to praise him in that difficult season. I kept the faith and trusted God, and he delivered on time.
The failure of Congress to reach a deal extending the Affordable Care Act subsidies may lead to an average 78% increase for health insurance in Illinois. In addition, 330,000 Illinois residents could lose health care coverage because of Medicaid cuts in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program program will worsen food insecurity among children, the elderly and people with disabilities. In spite of the policies, we will get through these extreme cuts together.
The Bible reminds us in Romans 5:3-4, “We glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope.” Therefore, no matter how dark your situation may look, don’t give up. Keep reminding yourself that this suffering will make you stronger.
Some people believe that money and wealth will make them powerful and happy. There are many millionaires and billionaires whose wealth could not save them from death. It is misleading to believe that being wealthy can make someone happier. With every level of success, there are new enemies and challenges. All the money in the world cannot buy love or joy. As long as God wakes us up each morning, we have another opportunity to fulfill our purpose. Where there is life — hope abounds.
I did not go to school much as a child, but we had faith, hope and love that a brighter day was coming. Our neighbors were kind. The people had compassion for each other. The Latin roots of the word “compassion” mean “to suffer together.” It is a feeling that arises when you are confronted with another’s suffering and feel motivated to relieve that suffering. It is compassionate to feed the hungry; clothe the naked; provide shelter to the homeless; visit the sick; give water to the thirsty; teach the illiterate; provide jobs for the jobless; serve as a caregiver for a loved one; and visit those in prison.
The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., referring to the parable of the good Samaritan, said that the first question the priest and the Levite asked was: “If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?” But the good Samaritan reversed the question: “If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?” A little compassion can save lives.
This year, we need to spread more love. The Bible declares in I Corinthians 13, “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.” It is a clarion call to “agape” — unconditional love that is superior to spiritual gifts. While faith and hope are vital, love endures forever.
King accurately noted: “Love is the greatest force in the universe. It is the heartbeat of the moral cosmos. He who loves is a participant in the being of God.” The power of love is transformative. It conquers all hate and evil. Love is the very essence of Jesus Christ, and that causes leaders to put people over political parties and self-interests.
Leaders should prioritize love and not war. Elected leaders should invest in people and not nuclear weapons. We need to promote education and peace, not nuclear annihilation.
The following are some suggestions to consider for this year:
- Forgive and reconcile with those who have hurt you.
- Call a loved one or friend who may have been alone during the holidays and invite them to lunch or dinner.
- For those who may be down on life, remember God loves you and do not give up.
- Spend less time on social media and more time socializing with friends and family.
- Members of Congress from the two parties should have dinner with each other and work to create friendships.
- It is OK to vote for ideas from an opposing political party if the ideas empower communities.
- Make a resolution to love your neighbor as yourself.
America is at a crossroads; we have been divided across race, ethnicity, gender and political party for too long. A divided nation cannot stand. A divided people cannot stand.
It can no longer be Republican against Democrat, citizens against police, white versus Black, and rich versus poor. We must achieve the original vision of our country — to be a place where all people can be free to pursue life, liberty and happiness truly — one nation under God.
Happy New Year all the way!
I write this commentary to make those comfortable with lacking faith, hope and love uncomfortable.
Willie Wilson is a business owner, philanthropist and former mayoral candidate.
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