By Larry Reinhold

I am listening to Rachel do her piano practice, while Danny drags his little brother Caleb from harm’s way like a calf being drug to the branding fire. Then Miss Molly comes in and presses a sticker on my chest that says, “ I love you.” Many of you are watching the season of youth as I am. We do have the opportunity to experience it, even on a grander scale each and every summer as the young people come and spend time here at the ranch.

Yet on the other hand, our hearts are heavy as we see the seasons of life from the other side as well. Two days ago, my mother received a phone call, one of those that seems to pile up difficulty upon the hard times of reality. She found out that her only sister, Vera, had just had a stroke. Aunt Vera had just shortly before discovered that her time on earth would be shortened due to cancer.

I am reminded of the song from the 1971 Oscar winning musical, Fiddler on the Roof.

As it says in the book of James, life is but a vapor. The clock does not stand still. Let us recognize the seasons of life and where we are. Come to the grips of certainty that tomorrow is not guaranteed and each day is more than a treasure, but also a responsibility.

I have been reminded of the blessings of praying people from all over. Many of you know that I have not been up to par health wise and truly the last six months have been somewhat trying. I have had a number of tests and I tell people that I passed the Wizard of Oz test. They did find a heart and brain. Many had question about that. I am better and convinced that the prayers of many contributed. Of course, it is not our faith, but rather Whom our faith is in. Please pray for others in the family as well. These are challenging times and with the aches and pains, the daily road can be difficult. Pray for Mom and Dad. Their desire is still strong but the flesh is not what it used to be. Both of them fight arthritis and feel the pain of past injuries. They continue to be an inspiration to many.

Recently we welcomed Dr. Frank Robison, of rural Sturgis, to our Board of Directors. He has already proven to be a real asset. Frank is a veterinarian with a clinic at Black Hawk. He and his wife Kay have five children, two of which are still at home. We have grown to love this family. Wayne and Miles, two of their sons, have been on staff over the years and have served in various capacities.