B.J. FLETCHER: Byne, Albany shine bright on ‘Night to Shine’

By now many — thanks to our local media — know that Byne Memorial Baptist Church hosted the national “A Night to Shine” event founded by former football star Tim Tebow’s organization.

And, yes, all of the utilities could have been cut off and I am telling you, you would have seen it all. By the beautiful night God gave us with a sky full of stars and the faces of everyone, no, you would not have missed one thing.

I now know what illumination is.

Hundred of volunteers, from food vendors to ladies baking fresh foods all day, church staff, contractors, young folks in their different sports jackets, nurses from Phoebe and other locations, limos, buses, golf carts, red carpet, etc. … with all of them involved, I doubt seriously if anyone could tell you any of the volunteers’ names.

You know why? Because it was meant to be all about God and the participants leaning on and dependent on strangers to make this glorious night shine.

Such beauty. No judging. No frowning. Nothing but pure love, expecting nothing in return. Now, in return, if we could get our community to shine like this, we will get through these trying times. No politics, no concern of what color the person was that was serving them, nothing negative. What a city we would be!

No matter who you choose to worship, be kind and gentle. Love your neighbor. Give to your enemy. Help someone. That’s the best return on investment you will ever get. A smile from someone that unfortunately has been overlooked many times. Their eyes told it all.

We were blessed by state rep Gerald Greene, and if other officials were there, I am sorry I didn’t see you. All the heads of ARC, Aspire, Primus, Easter Seal and others came out as a show of support and love.

So, ending on a positive note: Love. Love. Love. Agave love. Give that to everyone you see that day and every day. Thanks again to God and all that made this event possible. Feb. 7, 2025 should be the next one. Plenty of time to sign up.