Martin County is a peculiar place.

Our residents are always saying how unique we are. But is that true? Is there a difference between Martin County and the rest of the world?

We have been indoctrinated by our politicians and mostly ourselves to believe that. I don’t think it is true. We almost use it as an excuse to hide from our problems instead of confronting them.

There are many silos here. And they really don’t speak to each other. It is an endless loop that we are part of.

Some people have figured that out. Chris Collins has masterfully used it against the very people who believe in that uniqueness as if it were doctrine. And now those same people are paying the price.

Collins wants you to believe he is an environmentalist, a no-growth crusader, and will cut taxes. Yet until becoming a politician almost four years ago (and he is a skilled one), who ever saw him do anything for our community. He parrots back the “uniqueness doctrine” that so many believe.

In Matthew 7:16-20, Jesus warns us about the Chris Collins’ of the world. “16 By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? 17 Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.”

That is something we all need to remember.

This week we have some great columnists to give us their angles. I want to point out Dr. Michele explaining Hanta-Virus. Marcelo Guimaraes telling us about a unique Norwegian Village. And Brent reviews the Black Marlin.

So, settle back, pour yourself another cup of coffee and dig into Friends & Neighbors.

Have a great Sunday Morning!