Habersham County teacher Mike Rhoades and his family pause for a photo on the trail during a Mother’s Day hike this year. Pictured, L-R: Nathan, Mike, Abby, Kelly, Zach and Julia Rhoades.
Christmas is a wonderful time of year. It helps us focus on what’s important.
Sixteen years ago, my first wife succumbed to cancer and died at the age of 30. It was December 12th. My oldest daughter, Julia, was 3 and my son, Zach, was 1.
My life was shattered, but God had other plans.
…hold on to your family. Cherish them this Christmas. You never know when that might be the last word or touch.
Just as Christmas is a time of waiting and revelation, God, after a short wait, sent a beautiful woman into my life. Kelly is an incredible woman who has helped me pick up the pieces for the last 14 years. With two extra additions, Nathan and Abby, in the ensuing years, I am a modern day Job. God has doubled my blessings.
In a world that seems bent on destruction, hold on to your family. Cherish them this Christmas. You never know when that might be the last word or touch. Love them as God loves us.
Kelly, Julia, Zach, Nathan, and Abby, I love you and am so blessed to be your father and husband.
Merry Christmas! May God’s love rule you and His grace cover you.
~ Mike Rhoades
Habersham Success Academy
