In my first book, I wrote a message about an old African proverb concerning a mosquito.

This is my Council Report for the month of May. This time of year is always special as graduation ceremonies begin across our communities.

We’ve been trying to follow up and report to you on two significant items of interest to the community.

Jesus and the Apostles relate parables throughout the New Testament about money, riches, and the love of anything above God. Paul had his issues with money and described them to Timothy as a warning of the power money can have in influencing our lives. It is a form of idolatry with the shine of silver and gold.

I’ve written a lot about being courageous. Being bold and standing up is an important life skill as a Christian. I’ve meant every word and have given plenty of scripture to back it up.

So, I have been watching the debate over the prospect of tribal elk hunting evolving. And as I have observed and listened, it was curious to me how much our discussions sounded like the outside world and not that of culturally sensitive people.

When I spoke with Ava Walkingstick, Youth of the Year Nominee, her Cherokee Youth Center Manager, and the chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Club of the Tar Heel Region, I expected to hear a success story. What I heard was something deeper — a testament to what happens when a community refuses to leave its young people behind.

Good evening everyone. My name is Marissa Bradley-Ward and I am a person in long term recovery from Substance Use challenges.