Faith and fluctuation

News programs love man-on-the-street interviews. It gives you that human element where you see the people being affected by the story of the day. But how much more would it affect you if you not only saw those faces, but loved those faces you saw?

I live in Spring Hill. Yes, that Spring Hill. Sleepy town 35 miles south of Nashville.

"Is he going to keep his job?"
"Will they keep him on til the end?"
"Will he still run freight for the next few months?"
"I know he has been looking for months now. Any good prospects?"
"Does this mean you'll be moving?"
"How are you holding up?"
"We are praying for you."

The people who are being affected are my neighbors, friends, and members of my ward family. Women I call for a girl's night out. Friends we meet at the park and McDonald's for play dates. Friends from school. Families who sit next to us at church. I know how grateful they are for one more day or week or month of employment. I know how strong they are trying to be for their families.

The future is uncertain, but I am amazed by the hopefulness in the air. I have heard by almost everyone that they are hopeful that the plant will be bought or selected for manufacturing a different car, but either way "we will be ok". How strong the faith of those being tried. Fluctuation make me fearful, I don't do limbo well at all. I hope I learn from my friends.

Faith will see them through.

PS. Please no comments on the "bail-out" or the automotive industry. Even if we agree, I won't post them.