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From the Desk of Kathy C. Stevens The mind is clearly a battlefield. Every day the brain processes thousands of signals from sights and sounds encountered. Every person processes this information differently. Two people can have the same experience but walk away with a different perception. It's amazing, and sometimes really frustrating. When we listen, do we really listen? Or do mental filters get in the way of truly hearing what needs to be heard and accurately comprehending the information? Many times, we are preoccupied with the numerous tasks we have to accomplish on a daily basis just to keep our lives running "smooth." Other times we are tired, angry, in pain, bored, or just not interested in what is being said. Congratulations, you are human! I am normally very aware of when my mind wanders off to somewhere other than where I need to be at the moment. But the other day I went and had my annual blood test and the woman was going on about her name. All I could think about was the impending "needle." For some reason, I really hate needles. When it was all done, I thanked the lady for being so nice and asked her what her name was. That is when I realized I had not been listening to her at all because my "filter" was focused on worry and the needle. Luckily for me, she laughed and we joked about it. The Colony is coming close to the end of the golf course saga. It has been a black cloud above us for too long. I understand that some do not want a golf course and are afraid it will take us down a financial rabbit hole. I also understand that we have some residents who are visionary people looking forward to an amenity that will bring light to the community. There are always at least two sides to every issue, depending on "the battlefield of the mind." For me, I am going to focus my thoughts on what could be a positive outcome for all and trust that God will reward this community for all they have endured. Be well and have hope. | THE COLONY NEWS | DECEMBER 2024 | 3

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