Sometimes people we meet along life's journey become friends for life, others just pass through and even others become love interests.

Some people don't believe in love. I'm one of those.

Can't really blame me as one of my brothers is divorced and another on that path after only five months of marriage, not to mention the thousands of others.

It makes me wonder if perhaps the world around us would be a little more joyful if we took the time to see it with our hearts.

You may be wondering what this has to do with me being the "new kid on the block."

Well, it's like this.

When I first came to town more than two months ago, I held cynical beliefs concerning life that I have lived by for many years both professionally and personally.

The more I see of Le Mars, the more people I meet and the more I sink into the culture those beliefs have been turned topsy-turvy creating an inner struggle.

Perhaps this close-knit community with its invitations to join for worship, acceptance of different ideas and strength in the midst of struggle, are supposed to teach me.

Teach me just maybe love does exist.

Just another one of life's lessons.