Saying goodbye is often difficult. Saying goodbye to one among the best of men whose spirit and heart are about the committed service to God
and to his fellow man is even more so. James Fleming Norvell lived a long and productive life, reaching his 91st birthday on 5 September just before his final call to home on 10 September 2023. He was a longtime patient and fried. He was a great and generous friend of Horizon as well. He helped with multiple unsolicited donations to aid efforts with the Boys’ and Girls’ Club in replacing stolen computers as well as other points of need. He was an accomplished financial specialist in his life as well as a great golfer. He was a close and treasured friend of the late Arnold Palmer. He was a longtime member of the Augusta National Golf Club having been Club Champion there in his earlier years. As the ravages of age lessened his golfing acuity, he continued to promote the game’s expansion through his efforts to solidify Men’s and Women’s Golf at Augusta University and in enhancing the golf program at Davison Fine Arts High School. He was always about growing the game and teaching its lessons to all.
Personally, “Flembo” helped Horizon Foundation to finance community outreach during the pandemic. His generosity helped to make food, clothing, housing, utilities and vaccines available to people in need who would have not had needed provisions without his help through Horizon Foundation to make it happen. Per his norm, he would never request or accept public acknowledgement or notoriety
He saw his efforts and his generosity as part of his means to tangibly serve God through his service of his fellow man. I will miss his always kind and friendly encouragement and his understanding my need to give back to lessen the adversity which often derailed positive potential in the lives of many which Horizon serves. He told me pointedly that “if you feel that strongly about doing this with your own time and resources for God’s purposes then I want to be a part.”
So we bid adieu with gratitude and honor to James Fleming Norvell—“Flembo.” He was a great friend and mentor to me and a great friend to Horizon Foundation and to those we serve. We thank God for the length and the achievements of his illustrious life and for his seeing God in others always committing to serve beyond the restrictions of individual or group differences. Through Horizon, he helped us to help so many. Those blessing remain and live on in the lives of those whom we helped—whose lives we uplifted or turned positively forward. We honor the life of James Fleming Norvell—“Flembo.” We will continue to honor him going forward in our continued commitment to serve God and our fellow man ever attempting to make our world better than we found it. We bid you adieu, Flembo and we pledge to render honor and accolades to you in the service we render to others.
Bowman, M. D./De Pierce
Horizon
9 January 2021
As a former gridiron athlete, the occurrence of “piling on” after completion of a play was discouraged to the point of penalty. I will thusly, try to positively and usefully reflect on actions and reactions of this week without just becoming additional negative weight to the collection of submissions regarding the incomparable words and actions of this amazing week. Like many, I have experienced the full range of emotion and reaction to the words and actions of our leaders, including our President, as well as of so many of his minions and facilitators. Our country was pummeled and hurt in ways never before experienced by those sworn and outwardly committed to advance the tenants of democracy and of the Constitution of the United States of America. Inflamed by misguided, selfish and disingenuous leaders and their followers, intoxicated by the flavors of misguided allegiance, paranoia, and the immediacy of individual and group quest for power and its inflated trappings. Make no mistake, President Trump and many of his supporters brought major damage to the doorstep and violently through the portals of democracy on last Wednesday. Four years of moving from flirtations with errant and evil perspectives to actuations of those contrary conclusions, evolved to a violent eruption of raucous and dangerous behavior which shook America and the free world to its core. In the aftermath, there is still shock and disbelief that the world’s signature democracy could find itself bordering on the precipice of Armageddon. I, like many of my fellow citizens, share shock, hurt, concern and consternation for that which has occurred and what each of us must do in the aftermath to move us back from the narrow border catastrophe to the comfortable pathway of always focused toward individual and collective movement toward the greater good. America is dependent upon each of us to clear our vision, mentation and collegial and cooperative perspective and spirit to move us quickly to a better place.
I have tried consistently and, to this point, futilely, to find significant and expansive good in the words and actions of President Trump and his followers. It is not just Democrat or Republican. There are those of both ilk who have been positive and negative contributors to our present plight. Much is attributable to the basics of selfishness, narcissism, distorted and supported ideation and a generally pathologically myopic view. Like with most things, the addition to the milieu of dishonesty, flagrant lies for personal incentives paralleling complexly and perfidiously presented points of frank paranoia were fuel to truly catastrophic occurrence as a violent cadre of individuals left the podium and incendiary comments or The President, his son, his lawyer and other elected individuals to violent invade the halls and heart of our democracy. I watched as did many in shock and disbelief that such could occur in our beloved country. As one who swore allegiance as an elementary school student and evolutionary as a commissioned infantry officer in the U. S. Army, I saw no parallel from personal perspective to my ideations and actions to those of so many featured in their destructive words and actions in that previously protected space. The purveyors of conspiracy theory and “election steal” mentality ruled the day and trapped many of us in a painful and unfathomable place where there is no personal or collective peace for those of us who love America and all the good which has been pervasive and prevalent here. Certainly, there has not been perfection in this evolution to the present state of affairs; in fact, the evils of thought and of the human spirit has been part of what has brought us to present plight. In each of us there is the potential for good and evil. Our foundation, our faith and our fables contribute to the fomenting of ideas and ideals which chart our course and journeys. Fortunate would be the case that such was always for the individual and collective good which then transmitted to the greater good for America.
Our present circumstances are worthy of every effort at resolution, resurrection and rebound. Under the focused and compassionate leadership of President-elect Biden and Vice-President elect Harris and their stellar team, there is such an opportunity. One renders prayers and wishes for a quick and resilient progression of events. The depth of our chasm of minds, hearts and spirits, however, will require bridges throughout our great land which our individual journeys to be singular and to the contrary. Certainly, it should prove less burdensome without the daily bombast and bellicosity of a President who seemed to thrive of conflict, confusion and conflagration. I will not miss him. I tired of the initial shock of his words and deeds then became dulled to the daily onslaught against truth, honorable actions and deeds and the simplicity of respect, compassion and integrity. Despite his errant family heirloom of behavior, these things are not signs of weakness. Needless combative response and reaction are not automatic parallels to that which serves as appropriate model and example. Conspiracy theories and flagrant lies came to permeate the mind of many who lead us and ultimately came to be part of the psyche of many of the 70 million people who voted for him. Continuing to lead by negative example, the daily assault of lies and persistent dishonest means and methods ultimately morphed the minds of many who believed the lies of their leader. The discussions and dialogues throughout the country followed that lead and sober and civil interactions became a distant memory. Were that not enough, the persistent deadly background of the COVID 19 pandemic continued to make America and Americans ill and to take the lives of more than 350,000 hapless citizens. The economic dichotomy of a robust Wall Street and a painfully anemic main street saw suffering for the average citizen being unfortunately more the norm than the exception. Behavior required by the pandemic—wearing a mask or face shield, avoiding crowds, social distancing – which should have been spontaneous and non-controversial, instead, became political with national examples by the day of our leaders setting examples which fueled “super spreader” events as the corona virus raged and ravaged communities throughout the United States and the world.
This past week was in quick succession “the best of times and the worst of times.” The unexpected victories by compassionate and humanistic Senatorial candidates in my home state of Georgia in compliment to the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris as President – elect and Vice President elect truly gave me and many Americans a comfortable glance forward. Though bothered by Donald Trump’s robust 73 million followers who voted for him, I was bothered more by the reported 70% of Republicans who felt that the election was “rigged.” I waited for the daily assault of errant comments and deliberate actions in courts throughout the country to reorder the vote tally to afford President Trump re-election and return to the White House for a second term which he had not won. He never wavered in his quest with honesty and personal decorum not being a part of his methods nor of his supporters. It was the same in Congress with resolution of word and action in congress that he had won an election which he had lost by more than 7 million votes. When Congress gathered for the certification of the results of the Electoral College, the final part of the election of a new President and Vice President, I felt it was here that it would end and normalcy would replace the heightened animus of the last month or actually, the last four years. Who of normal perspectives or mentation would have predicted the venomous explosion violence in word and action of President Trump MAGA minions and marauders. With his and his cooperating cohorts energetic and encouraging provocation, thousands of deceived and politically demented individuals took to the streets taking them to and through the hallowed hall of the Capitol. The pictures and documentaries visually and verbally detailed the first invasion of the Capitol by hostile forces since 1812 when the British did such. Who could have imagined or predicted that this time the invaders or insurrectionists were encouraged, cajoled and motivated by the selfish and dishonest words and deeds of The President of The United States. Certainly, many bear a heavy swath of responsibility and condemnation for one of the most embarrassing, disheartening, and ill focused occurrences in American history. Where we go from here has to be to a better place as individuals and as a responsible citizenry. Those of alternate directions, beliefs and energies will continue to embrace the peddled conspiracy theories which are part of a firm stake between factions of Americans who presently share little commonality. President Biden and Vice President Harris have major challenges before them—The pandemic, the economy, help to hurting Americans who are economically devastated then trying to healing the cultural, racial, spiritual divide which challenge the mantra of “One America.”
Unfortunately, this missive poses no answers. It does detail the obvious of our present state. It notes our needs as Americans to have a central focus and goal of seeking common ground for the greater good—for us as individuals, as Americans and for America. We all have a level of responsibility for moving forward to a better place. As God presents challenges, He presents answers and assets to negotiate and resolve those challenges. My hope and my prayer is that we can each look deeply within ourselves to bring forth and galvanize the means and methods which help to move ourselves and America to the consequential best possible. This will not be easy, but certainly it is possible, mandatory and not negotiable.
Bowman, M. D.
10 January 2021
Revised and reprinted 10 January 2024
Horizon Foundation has had a busy Spring agenda. With the lessening of the threat from COVID 19, Horizon has again been active in community health outreach. Dr. Mac Bowman spoke with hundreds of area citizens at events in Thomson at the Boys and Girls Club and at two events in Grovetown at the Liberty Community Center. These events focused on healthy habits for healthy bodies and hearts. There was emphasis on “knowing your numbers”—blood pressure should be maintained at 120-130 /70-84; blood sugar 100 or A1c of 5.7 or less. If one has diabetes and is on therapy, A1c goal is 6.5-7. The next numbers are Cholesterol of 120-180; triglyceride less than 150; HDL (good cholesterol) > 40. It increases with good diet and regular exercise; LDL (bad cholesterol) < 85 for non diabetics and < 70 in diabetics. The last number is 0—that is the number of tobacco exposures that are safe in an individual—no cigarettes, cigars, pipes, dip or chewing tobacco.
At a women’s retreat at beautiful Y Camp Lakeside in Lincoln County, there was emphasis on commencing and maintaining a regular exercise program with a goal of aerobic exercise for 30-60 mins 3 -5 days weekly. This includes walking, running, biking, dancing, yoga, swimming or varied exercises requiring moving of body parts and increasing heart rate and calorie consumption. With most of the health outreach events, we were again able to provide plaque scans where ultrasound of the carotid arteries in the neck to evaluate for early cholesterol deposits were part of the offering. Similar message and scans were done in front of Tabernacle Baptist Church and Wallace Branch Library. The street was blocked to celebrate the beautiful spring day and to commemorate the Golden Blocks-the Historic bustling business and commerce district which was centerpiece of the African American community in the early to mid 20th century. Whether in gymnasiums, Mercedez Benz showroom, Family Y campsite, school auditoriums or in the middle of Laney Walker Blvd—the message to promote and advance improved heart and total health was brought forth and shared. The first H of the Horizon Foundation 5 Hs is not accidental—to improve HEALTH. Lets get moving. Eat well. Get regular check ups. Know your numbers and get them to be as good as they can be. Achieving, maintaining and sustaining optimal health is a worthwhile goal which is with the reach of each of us.
Bowman, M. D.
Father’s/Fathers Day weekend 2023 was a special treat. Fatherhood is among God’s greatest gifts. My adult children, Eboni, Janaka, Nicouri and Marc are sources of love, pride and energy. Each is different with unique talents and interests. They amaze me and make me proud to be their dad. My son, Marc, is a great Dad to my two youngest grandsons, Maddux and Micah. He and my eldest daughter, Eboni, prepared a heart healthy meal of grilled red snapper, zucchini, corn and squash was truly exquisite in every way. My middle daughter, Janaka was their coaching the preparation along with husband Daryl, and grandson and granddaughter, Justus and Delany. My youngest daughter, Nicouri sent greetings and love from Tucson, where she is Executive Director of the Family Y there.
In addition to sharing the cuisine and family interactions, the high point was my sharing of my Horizon community outreach with eldest grandson, Khai-13 and my only granddaughter, Delany-9. Saturday was one of the regular Horizon outreaches with the Food Ministry at Stamp Branch Baptist Church of Warren County. I am blessed to participate with Rev. J. Lowe and Sister Beaurine Wilkins and an energetic committed group of members. Horizon helps to supply and distribute a week’s food staples including fresh produce and meets to 100-150 families every 3rd and 5th Saturdays. They have done this in love, faith and service for 13 years. I am blessed to be able to participate as we share love, faith and food to our Brothers and Sisters in need. Before, during and after the pandemic, The Food Ministry stands in the gap and does what God would have them do in service.
Father’s/Fathers Day week end Saturday brought us all together again. The boxes of food, sweet potatoes, fish, meats, sweets and staples were prepared and loaded into cars, trucks and SUV’s. Two special helpers this time were Khai and Delany. They powered down electronics and left them in the car and energetically went to work. They quickly learned to efficiently pack boxes with food items. Delany was expert in short stead as was Khai. In addition, Khai flexed his muscle hauling the boxes of food to the cars which pulled past the front of the beautiful church to accept the needed nourishment. It was great for all concerned. It was an exceptional opportunity for all of us—it always is for me and the adults. It was a special event for my grandchildren. I have tried to instill in my children the adage of service beyond self—to God and to others. I am proud that each of them receives and embraces this example. Khai and his mom, Eboni, provide clothing and clothing at homeless shelters in Atlanta. Delany, helps her mom, Janaka in volunteer efforts through her AKA sorority and through her Foundation, The Vanilla Bowman Foundation for Education. We discussed their impression of their efforts and of this opportunity to receive and share God’s love with others tangibly. I am thankful and so pleased that, already, THEY GET IT!!! They appreciated the needs of those who came for help as well as the joy they received in their work and service. They understood God’s expectation of all of us that we love and serve Him as we love and serve others. This was a special point of sharing with two of my grandchildren. I was so proud of their energy and effort on behalf of others. My prayers for them and their other cousins, Justus, Maddux and Micah are that they continue to grow forward in the joy of service—to God and to others in the best of ways. Father’s/Fathers Day 2023 was special indeed.
MBmd–Horizon
Thomson High School honored Seth Adams and Katelynn Grissom as the 2023 Dr. Mac Bowman Outstanding Male and Female Scholar Athletes for the year.
Seth is his class’s Salutatorian. He played baseball and was a member of the archery team. He will attend Georgia Tech.
Katelynn was an outstanding softball player in addition to being a perennial honor student. She will attend Claflin University and will play softball there as well.
The awards presented at Honors Night each year is named for Dr. Mac Bowman a former outstanding student athlete at Thomson High School. Each student received $500 toward their college expenses from the Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation.
Congratulations to Seth and Katelynn. Prayers and best wishes as you continue your activities of excellence and service in college.
M. Bowman, M. D.
She was here for just a short stay,
Not long enough—
Yet just the time to do and to get done.
Fields were cleared.
Crops were planted and harvested home
For the world to consume
And grow with nourishment
Special and, at times divine.
Was part of God’s majestic plan.
So much done with royal slant
Clear focus and steady aim toward what would be;
Trajectory set beyond here through
Ties that certainly bind
And that anointed connection is secure.,
Just long enough to do a Mother’s cherished work;
To prepare the palate and paint with artful skill,
The painting which would be gift and gain
For the world’s museum.
Where beyond just the object of look and view,
It evolved to life and living and all the things
Within and beyond.
All made better and best with God’s special view displayed.
And all done in mere days to weeks to months to years,
But still, not enough yet just enough to be
All that God would have her be,
For me and for all the world to see
That art which was hers as only hers could be,
To honor God and for all the world to see
And move the mission to fruition
With empty chair.
Now gone and no longer waiting there
As work goes on as the smell of paint lingers
And the picture, not perfect, becomes complete,
As the work continues on that she started.
She was here long enough
And now the work is mine, yours and ours.
She was not here long—
But long enough indeed.
Bowman, M. D.
Horizon
Mothers’ Day 2023
The world continues to hemorrhage and hurt. There is so much that we need to do. There is so much pain and so much suffering. It is important to stand in the gap and do what one can do to stop forward beyond a point of catastrophe or compromise. What can one do? How can one help? Is this as far as one can go? Can we do better with a different point of effort? During the last year, the suffering and things which restricted often overwhelmed and made one wonder whether a better way was within reach. Yet known is what we do as we discover God’s greater plan for each and all—in this New Year. We go forward with Love and Faith and Greater Expectations as God’s Will is surely done. This year is thus already better, and how we started is not necessarily as we finish. Our faith is supreme as are our expectations for the greater good. We step forward with more than that which was ours at inception. We conclude with a full envelope of all the potential which drives us and allows us see potential beyond present space. It is the New Year and all things are new and rich and full of the energy and effort which truly changes things and makes our space—our place—our world—BETTER! We can. We will. We must—make and leave our world BETTER than we found it.
Bowman, M. D.
Horizon Foundation
I could start anywhere with the special points of this special time—Christmas!!! So much is going on with so many points of happiness—BUT so many points of compromise—of hurt—of need. All call the name of HORIZON to come forth and answer the call for all. Christmas means joy and presents and happiness. It also means evictions and power bills and food and clothing and all the things needed and not had. So, Christmas is a point of joy but still a point of need and of service. I find joy in doing those things which fill those points of needs wherever I can. My goal is to fill those needs whenever and wherever I can. With so much generosity directed Horizon’s way, we fulfill those needs and continue to look for points of service. I lived in El Paso, Texas for 5 years while in the Army. It is special to me forever. I see the needs and suffering of so many looking for a better life. I cannot resolve the issues with immigration. I am charged to action when young mothers and fathers and children sleep on cold pavement of back streets which I walked in earlier years. No judgement. Just need and Horizon helps through the El Paso Red Cross to bring a little warmth and to HELP and provide HOPE. We need to resolve our immigration issues, but so many who are here need HELP—not hostility, ill will and actions. For Christmas—points of joy but also points of needs and points of suffering. Horizon—health, help, hope, healing and honor—so much to do and so many willing and generous hearts and spirits to do it. Merry Christmas from Horizon. We embrace the joy of the season and the challenges which continue to move us forward to greater points of service.
Bowman, M. D.
Founder, Horizon
It has been a fast and frenzied season. There have been records as far as temperature. There have been natural challenges of heat excess, fires and floods and already on the first day of Autumn, there is already catastrophe from the season’s first storms and hurricanes. Here, locally, we press on.
Horizon has been busy at things all summer. The monthly staples of service to others through our church and community partners has continued unabated. So, to have individual acts of aid related to COVID 19 sequelae, helping with vaccine provision, aid with medication provision, assisting with burials for some whose earthly journeys ended. We helped maintain mentorship programs for urban high school boys. We had also with urban girl programs through local groups. We funded summer camp for inner city kids through the Y in Augusta and Thomson and even in urban Tucson, Arizona where, Horizon member, Nicouri Bowman is Executive Director of the Tucson Family Y. We ever look for opportunities to help, to improve the health, to heal, to provide Hope and to honor those who serve others.
In addition to major contributions to render aid and support in cases of local, regional, national and international catastrophe, Horizon has been strongly committed to helping whenever the need dictated quick and compassionate response. We have continued educational support as well this summer with additional stipends to our ladies in medical school, our graduate students and our recent high school graduates starting college this past summer and this fall.
With the improving picture of hope and healing surrounding the pandemic, we have continued to support and encourage vaccination and helped to provide counsel and medical intervention with newer oral therapy when infection occurs. We have been blessed with better personal practices, more expansive vaccination and boosters and improved oral therapies in those who were infected. Deaths and hospitalizations still occur but with a striking reduction from the Days of Delta to what we now experience with present dominant Omicron BA.4 and BA.5. where most individuals are treated at home.
Nationally, there continues to be risk to some with deaths across the country still being more than 300 people daily. Most deaths occur in those with significant predispositions and those still not vaccinated. The cooler weather of fall will bring about larger indoor crowds and increased potential for flu and COVID 19. Vaccination for both and prudent masking are still recommended. The new Omicron BA. 4 and BA 5 specifically protects against the prevailing dominant variant strains. Vaccines for Flu as well as Covid boosters are available at no charge through most pharmacies. Paxlovid, 5-day oral therapy for those infected with Covid 19 has a 90 % protection from death and hospitalization in those infected with Covid 19.
Horizon looks strongly and steadily forward to times, places and circumstances of service. With reduction and containment of COVID 19, we have been part of neighborhood health information sessions including some screening for hypertension, diabetes and carotid atherosclerosis. We are hopeful for continuing to expand these health outreach efforts in cooperation with community outreach services of Piedmont Augusta Healthcare. Hopefully these community outreach sessions will increase to past levels. This is an exciting time for Horizon, Augusta and our many local partners. We have developing excitement about our upcoming 2023 Mercedez Benz Raffle. It will occur surrounding Valentine’s Day 2023. Kick Off for the Raffle with be with our Rotary of Augusta Partners of 17 October 2022. This year’s signature fundraiser designee will be announced at Rotary meeting on Monday 17 October. Then 2022 evolve into the blessed holiday season. Always greater needs and challenge surrounding Thanksgiving, Christmas and the advent of the New Year. De Pierce and I are excited about the prospects and possibilities. We embrace the opportunity to serve. We enthusiastically commit to continue to share God’s blessings and love—From Him; -To Us; -To Others. Much work done! Much work to do! To God Be The Glory!
Mac Bowman, M. D.
Founder, Horizon Foundation
Horizon Foundation extends immense gratitude and respect to the Sorors and Fraters of Chi Eta Phi Nursing Sorority Incorporated. This accomplished group of healthcare professionals gathered at the Downtown Augusta Marriott hosted by the local Phi Chi Chapter of Augusta, Georgia. This year, Horizon Foundation was blessed and honored to be recognized for its efforts in Community Service with the Southeast Regional Award for Excellence in Community Service. This year’s award included a donation of $1950 to Horizon Foundation all of which is committed to use for Horizon’s local charitable efforts of service and improving the plight of community citizens challenged by health or economic debility. Dr. Mac Bowman accepted the award and thanked his Brother in Service and Horizon CEO, De Pierce for continued energy and efforts to uplift and advance the circumstances of all that we can whenever and wherever we can. Heartfelt gratitude to Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc and the local Phi Chi Chapter. Horizon will honor your award and very generous donation with our unwavering and unremitting commitment to the service of others.
Bowman, M. D./De. Pierce
Horizon Foundation
Those gathered on the lawn of University Hospital on the morning of 1 March 2022, witnessed a historic end as it evolved into a equally historic beginning. University Hospital/University Healthcare System officially became Piedmont Augusta, part of Piedmont Healthcare System. From humble beginnings as a 10 bed edifice expandable to 21 during yellow fever epidemics with as separate kitchen it now merged with the largest hospital system in the state and one of the largest in the Southeast. From origin at 124 Greene Street as City Hospital serving the poor, it became University Hospital with the building of a new hospital in 1915. From its inception in June of 1818, City Hospital evolved through pestilence, wars and social disparity and disarray to become the guiding light and protective shield for the citizens of Augusta and the surrounding area. University Hospital from its origin as City Hospital carried the mantle of being the area’s provider of the best care possible for those in need. It was the first hospital for the Medical College of Georgia from its founding in 1828 until it built Talmadge Hospital as its teaching hospital in 1955. For 204 years University Hospital had proudly, expertly and compassionately saved lives and improved the health of those who were their grateful foci of energy and effort. Now as Piedmont Augusta, it becomes part of an additionally historic and accomplished medical institution. Together they will grow forward and beyond providing stalwart and evolutionary care which is second to none. City Hospital—University Hospital—University Healthcare System—Piedmont Augusta/Piedmont Healthcare System—a legacy of commitment and excellence in service to its citizens continues. It is an anointed relationship which is particularly and peculiarly prepared to do good and great things for the people whom we are blessed and honored to serve.
So much to do;
I need more time,
To sift and see and savor
Ideas and actions which should be
But, often are not.
Struggles exist and prevail.
I am one and we are few.
Despite all—much to do.
Hearts pressed and God nods no pause.
The merit of action remains the unremitting cause.
No stake or brake or variant arrow,
Strike toward and to the heart, as
Victory is at hand; within grasp,
But still not clinched, clutched and controlled.
Let energy rest, rekindle and redirect,
Until mission is now and victory is ours.
Till then, work and move and pray forward.
Premature celebrations and cudos have no place
As there remains—much to do with evaporating time.
There is no pity nor free glory passes.
Just work and straining hearts as others suffer.
The truth is seen which does not forgive,
Nor does it allow second chances.
Endure we must with all focus forward,
Ours yet prepares for seats at the victors table.
When is ours though—not yet and not now.
There is work to share.
There is glory as we continue to care.
There is time though uncertain and without guarantee.
And there is all and others and me.
No stops or second chances;
All or not anything awaits tomorrow.
So we work and pray. We direct and redirect
To bring truth to that which evolves in another sphere.
I am happy here, existing with promise.
Better chances await. The stake remains high.
I accept that which God guarantees
As I know that failure is not choice or option,
Today or any day.
Forward is rigid direction.
Victory is quest and less than calm summit.
Peace is mine. Yours awaits.
M. Bowman, M. D.
Gun Violence continues to break the heart of our homes, communities and country. It flourishes without favor or fortune.
Gun Violence leading cause of premature death in USA
– More than 38,000 deaths per year
– More than 85,000 injuries per year
– Kills more than 100 Americans daily
– Injures 250 Americans daily
– All numbers are increased during 2020/2021 during pandemic
– 57% of gun deaths in GA are suicides
– 40% of gun deaths are homicides
– Unintentional 1.4%
– Law enforcement-1.1%
– 75% of gun partner deaths victims are women
– Georgia 17th highest rate of gun deaths in the USA
Painful Punctuation
Nathaniel Tyler Johnson (25 June 2007—14 August 2021)
– Graduated from Project BBUILD mentorship/academic enhancement program Alpha Mu Boule’
– Ceremony of Erudition on 1 August 2021. Entry Freshman Class at Midland Valley High School-CANCELLED
– Death from gunshot wound within his home by misdirected family member-14 August 2021
– Funeral and Burial 21 August 2021
How it is, is not how it has to remain. We can honor Nathanial’s memory with:
– Actions to decrease inappropriate, gun availability and access.
– Enhancing and improving conflict resolution, identifying individuals with emotional and psychological risk and making available appropriate counseling and medicinal therapy
– Improving domestic processing and resolution for improved spousal safety and protection
Bowman, M. D.
Getting The First Available Vaccine is Strongly Recommended and Encouraged
Numbers can elucidate, explain, quantify, exactly define in the most minute and distinct way. There are variables and ranges of numerical considerations which allow some latitude affording alternate conclusions from those numerical variables when considered by different individuals. Such is the case as we consider the reported success and efficacy or the presently available vaccines for COVID-19, the Pfizer, Moderna and the recently approved for emergent use, the Johnson and Johnson. All three have been tested and found to be SAFE. That is number one. They have also been found to be effective at lessening severe infections, hospitalizations and death from COVID-19.
Important reference numbers for commonly known vaccines: vaccine in 1954-55 had a success rate at presenting the three types of polio including the paralytic, type I, of 65% with some areas reporting efficacy of 75-80% possibly related to variability in vaccine lots resulting in lesser or more robust antibody response in children vaccinated. 65% was the mark of this successful vaccine effort. For our yearly composite Influenza vaccine, which varies yearly to cover predicted common strains of influenza world wide based on astute epidemiologic data by expert virologists, the overall effectiveness per CDC data for 2019-2020 was 45% and 50% effective against Influenza B/ Victoria viruses and 37% effective against Influenza A/H1N1. From 2015-2021, overall effectiveness per yearly flu season ranged from29% in 2018-2019 to 48% in 2015-2016. As above the overall effectiveness in preventing Influenza was 45%
That brings us to the scourge of our time, the deadly sponsor of the world’s most virulent pandemic in more than one hundred years, COVID-19 (SARS-Co V 2-Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, Coronavirus 2, Coronavirus). To date in the United States, there has been more than 33.8 million confirmed infections with more than 604,000 deaths with the latter group including a predominance of citizens over 65, people of color and those with preexisting conditions such as obesity, diabetes, hypertension and underlying cardiovascular, lung or systemic chronic inflammatory disease. Through truly remarkable scientific effort worldwide, effective vaccines for COVID-19 quickly came to fruition. In this country, focused at the NIH through the work of Dr. Kizzmekia S. Corbett and her Vaccine Research Center colleagues as well as through private and government supported efforts of private companies, PfizerBioNtech /Moderna, safe vaccines evolved from concepts and laboratory specimen to effective disease preventing and lifesaving medications injected into the arms of people in the USA and world wide with hopes of ultimately ending the pandemic.
The efficacy rates, the numbers, for the Pfizer vaccine at preventing death and severe disease as well as lessening infection and transmissibility was 95% in the early days of the pandemic when the predominant strain of COVID-19 was the initial strain felt to have evolved from the Wuhan, China wet market. The second, Moderna vaccine, similarly was tested in the earlier days of the pandemic both approved for emergency use authorization (EUA) before the known evolution of the more infectious and sometimes, but not generally more virulent strains such as from the United Kingdom, Brazil and South Africa. Both of the initial vaccines have subsequently been tested against the variants. There was efficacy though not as robust and with the initial viral target with efficacy in the range of 50-60%. Remember the “successful” numbers for polio and influenza. This performance by comparison is good. Boosters with even better performance by Pfizer and Moderna are already being tested which will improve on even this good result.
The Johnson and Johnson was recently improved for emergency use. It has several advantages. It is one dose rather than two for the others. It is kept in routine refrigeration rather than more expensive and less available ultra-cold for the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. It is also less expensive at about $10 per dose rather than $27- $40 per dose for the earlier vaccines. One special difference is that it came through its clinical testing when the variants were more prevalent. It performed well. Like its counterparts, it prevented death and hospitalizations for severe infections by 100%. It prevented severe and critical disease in the US by 85.6% and 82% in South Africa. Overall, in the USA the efficacy was 72-75% and 81-85 % prevention of severe disease and 64% efficacy in the countries where the variant strains were prevalent.
All Three Vaccines Are 100% Effective in Preventing Death and Hospitalization of Serve Disease
Summarily, we have three good vaccines that are 100 % effective at preventing death and hospitalization for severe disease. The vaccines were not tested in similar circumstances with the J and J coming to age and approval later in the pandemic and in countries and areas where variant coronaviruses were part of the landscape. The vaccine performed very well and its single dose and storage ease will make it a strong ally and lifesaver throughout the United States and the world. The recent decision of the Detroit mayor, to initially not accept the J and J vaccine was an unfortunate mistake on his part (he has since recanted after being better informed, apologized and stated that he will accept all of the vaccines acquirable for his citizens, as he should). The numbers, per the studies are not equivalent nor were the circumstances of the evaluations of the individual vaccines.
At the end of the day, the shared important number for all 3 vaccines is 100% prevention of death of hospitalization for severe disease. The J and J vaccine will be helpful and certainly lifesaving in anyone who receives it and will be a logistical juggernaut where populations are more remote or have challenges accessing routine medical care access. The one dose rather than two doses for J and J and its ease of storage here is a plus. As to the numbers relating to efficacy overall, it must be noted the differences in time and environments –later in the pandemic where variant strains were more prevalent for the J and J—tougher terrain. So, for my final important number– we have 3 great vaccines. Had I not been vaccinated with high-risk providers, months back, I would have been blessed, pleased and happy to take either of the 3—whichever was first available to me, I would have taken. My first available was Pfizer. I would have been perfectly ok had it been Moderna or J and J. I would recommend similar considerations for my family, my patients and to all who ask me. I would emphasize and advise that they note the 100 % death and severe illness for all three vaccines and that they not let unequal comparison numbers of overall efficacy cost them in severity of illness or death if they defer or delay vaccination to get a particular one. Get the first vaccine you can and soon as you can. For now, in addition, until most of our citizens are vaccinated, continue to mask, distance, wash hands and avoid large unvaccinated crowds and gatherings.
M. Bowman, M.D.
Horizon Foundation
As 2021 approaches finality, we approach this Holiday season with the pluses and minuses of a second pandemic year of victories and defeats which have made the year one of challenge with scars and trophies as residual. Each of us has had the opportunity to rise above and beyond adversity or abdicate and cast a white towel into the ring of life. The work of a difficult but heartening victory versus a faithless defeat as one notes no tangible answer or action to counter prevailing adversity. This time of year, for those of us involved in healthcare, bears witness to the stresses and strains of “outrageous fortune” or misfortune alternately. The weighty presence for individuals and families can be overwhelming. Personally, I focus here on the “reason for the season” and how I can celebrate and acknowledge that with what I do in service to others, as I acknowledge the birth of Christ. I speak with some who find impetus for depression and sadness during this festive season. I find, contrarily, feelings of joy and fulfillment as circumstances of others are improved and positively altered by some things small and others larger—all from the heart and focused beyond self. That is how I chose to negotiate the holiday season—passing on God’s Love from Him—To Us—To Others—by words and deeds.
Bowman, M. D.
Over the past 45 days the Delta variant of COVID 19 has declared itself as the newest and most infectious variant of SARS-CoV-2 to date.
It replicates much more aggressively within infected cells. Therefore, it results in a much heavier viral load making it more infectious, particularly for the unvaccinated.
The present Pfizer and Moderna vaccines and to a much lesser degree, the Johnson and Johnson vaccines afford some degree of protection against the Delta variant, which originated in India where it left a catastrophic legacy of morbidity and mortality.
We have been fortunate to date that our experience in Augusta has been benign. I advise that we not expect that will be our course going forward. Thanks to many in our community from our mayor, Hardie Davis, to our excellent hospital systems, University Healthcare System, Augusta University, Doctors Hospital, we had higher vaccination rates than other Georgia metropolitan areas.
We had many community leaders who stepped forward like the Augusta National Golf Club who funded aggressive testing as well as aggressive vaccination through renovated property at the old Stein Mart as well as the provision of mobile vaccination units which went to neighborhoods with less access.
Many churches and congregations stepped forward to make their facilities and staffs available to expand vaccination opportunities. University Healthcare System partnered with Dr. Charles Goodman and Tabernacle and my Horizon Foundation to provide vaccines in the Tabernacle community and beyond.
Augusta University did an excellent job with vaccination sites at Good Shepherd, Rev. Moore and his very proactive congregation. Vaccination sites were also set up Old Macedonia in North Augusta, First Baptist Church in Augusta and Meadowbrook in South Carolina.
Our vaccination success certainly positions us beyond that of many Georgia communities with more vaccine hesitancy. Horizon Foundation has attacked this aggressively with helping to develop partnerships, particularly with Tabernacle Baptist Church and University Healthcare System.
Additional vaccinations were done to high-risk individuals at the Salvation Army Center of Hope. It was certainly a blessing for these individuals who were transient and were grateful to have the blessing of vaccination made available.
As we feel good with what has been accomplished in Augusta, look at the last 24 hours in Augusta. A large, high profile sporting event, with participants from many of the states with lower vaccination rates sent many young unvaccinated individuals to University Hospital with COVID 19 concerns. Test results are pending but many of these unvaccinated young people will have the Delta variant, hence, it may have a heavy presence here in Augusta.
Those who have been vaccinated will have 66-85% protection from the Delta variant. They will not die and will unlikely require ICU or hospitalization at all. For some of the unvaccinated, it will unfortunately be the Alpha—the beginning and the Omega—the end as some who become infected will die. Over 99% of the deaths from COVID 19 in June/July were in the unvaccinated with the majority of these infections being from the Delta variant. So, despite the many of us who are fully vaccinated, there remains new risk now from the Delta variant finding a foothold among us.
I went out to Costco, as per my usual Saturday norm. I wore my mask as I continue to do when I go to larger gatherings where I am unsure or the vaccination status of others. My concerns were the definitive minority as less than 10% of the large volume of customers were masked. —I doubt seriously that 90% of the Costco customers were completely vaccinated. Risk therefore, for the Delta variant and otherwise was certainly there. Beyond any degree of paranoia, this, in my opinion is a healthier way to proceed.
Through The Horizon Foundation, I continue to make all aware who will listen. On yesterday, I did a Zoom meeting for the employees of a large state medical facility. There was much vaccine hesitancy. Many who heard the presentation reached a level of comfort that they decided to partake of the vaccine offered at their facility. I have had similar success with other groups, but until our significant numbers of unvaccinated individuals decline, there remains much for me, Horizon and others to do.
So, we are not done with COVID 19 and it is not done with us. The Delta variant is real and accounts for the majority of the new infections in the USA and has a focused predilection for the unvaccinated. It is much more infectious secondary to the higher viral replication rate and higher viral load resulting in increased infectivity. For the unvaccinated, they are at higher risk of death or hospitalization.
Though a vaccinated individual may have a break through infection, it will typically be mild and not require hospital care. I would thus still recommend distancing, personal hand hygiene and masking if going into an uncertain crowd or if you are visiting and area of lower vaccination density. If you are not sure, I would err on the side of wearing the mask. That is what I do, though fully vaccinated, I was one of the 10% at Costco wearing a mask—protecting myself, my family and my patients and staff from unnecessary risk because of the unvaccinated.
As I have said previously, we are not done with COVID-19 (Delta variant) and it is not done with us. Don’t press your luck, GET STUCK (get vaccinated!!) Also, don’t discard your mask. If you are in uncertain territory as related to larger crowds with questionable vaccination status, you should wear your mask, as I did at Costco today. It is not political. It is not controversial. It is safe and lessens your risk, even though it is reduced by vaccination status. It is the right thing to do and may save you uncomplicated or complicated infection or even some unvaccinated person’s life.
Bowman, M. D.
Horizon Foundation
Just two weeks past celebrating with his family and his brothers of this year’s Project BBUILD graduating class, Nathaniel Tyler Johnson was pronounced dead at his home on 14 August 2021 in Graniteville, South Carolina just across the Savannah River from Augusta, Georgia. He had been a sturdy three-year performer in Project BBUILD, Alpha Mu’s award-winning mentorship and tutorial program for middle school boys in coordination with the Boys and Girls Club of Augusta and the Richmond County Board of Education. The program, Founded by Archon Ronald Brown, Sr. and embraced and articulated by the Archons and Archousai of Alpha Mu Boule’ of Augusta, Georgia mentors, instructs and supports middle school boys into better and more productive ways to engage themselves, their inherent talents and abilities and grow themselves forward as productive citizens who embrace and enhance their communities—all for the greater good as individual best becomes the order of the day. Such had been Nathaniel’s journey, as he was on point and on time in his pursuit of excellence. On 1 August, he had been one of this year’s Project BBUILD graduates. He was preparing to start high school as a Freshman at Midland Valley High School. He never made his inaugural entry into his freshman class. After the excellence of achievement and of deed detailed in his recognition at 2021 Ceremony of Erudition, Archon Brown and others of Alpha Mu found themselves as participants in his Eulogy on Saturday 21 August 2021. This was a personal and painful reminder of the times and circumstances in which we live where endless possibility and positive potential become wanton victim and a life full of promise is no more. A loving grandmother, whose life he gave to save hers, who had celebrated him just two weeks before, now cradled him as he moved beyond the living as the misdirected actions of a family member projected through a gun and its fatal projectile to end limitless possibilities.
We struggle. His family. Alpha Mu. The Augusta-Graniteville community. His brothers in Project BBUILD. Our community and this world which now will never know the full fruition of the gifts, blessings and talents which Nathaniel would bring forth to leave his world better than he found it. Be for sure, this was indeed part of Nathaniel’s perhaps quietly shared goal and aspiration. Be that as it may, the finality of his untimely death for whatever misguided reason makes it perspective or opinion which is absent from the possibility of resurrection or alternate outcome except for that and those which are possible from us here who remain in the aftermath—broken hearts and all. He was compassionately and effectively eulogized by Archon, Rev. Charles Goodman, Jr. who detailed the absolutes of young and needless death and the loss of what was which can never be more. We mobilize as we know that which is-40 people per day die from gun violence. It is the leading cause of premature death in the USA with 38,000 deaths per year and 85,000 injuries. Every day 100 are killed and approaching 250 are injured by directed and misdirected gun violence. Like with Nathaniel, who was the quintessential non gang banger but instead, a pudgy, cherubic young man who loved his family, his grandmom, his siblings and the Clemson Tigers, the gun and the bullet had no conscious as it pierced this young man’s torso as he interceded to save the lives of others. As full details emerge, the absolute is unfortunately clear beyond doubt, our loved and revered, Nathaniel Tyson Johnson, celebrated with this year’s Project BBUILD graduates is a painful and beloved memory. It must be beyond that for those of Alpha Mu and of Sigma Pi Phi, for Archon Ronald Brown, Archousa Mary Brown, Archon Hardi Jones, Achon Charles Lamback, Archon Clarence Williams and other Archons and Archousai of Alpha Mu who embraced his smile, inquisitive spirit and endless possibilities over the last three years. We know not the whys of this final event. We accept our individual and collective broken hearts. We refuse to accept this to yet be that which is final about our dear Nathaniel. As we accepted that which engaged Archon Ronald Brown, Sr. and Archousa Mary Brown as were engaged and called to action after Grand Boule’ in Detroit detailing the societal assault on young African American males, we must similarly engage and aggressively accept the call to action of lessening gun availability and misguided use. From Nathaniel’s graduation from Project BBUILD in happy finality of an important stage of his life, as he had gained knowledge and had grown forth and forward to greater possibilities, to his death, perhaps in heroic circumstances, but still a sad and painful statistic—final, with no reprieve unless by us as those who remain and loved this young man. We then are poised to honor his life and his memory in that which we do in the aftermath of this horrible day. This must be our gift to honor the life of Nathaniel Tyler Johnson of Project BBUILD Ceremony of Erudition Class of 2021. He is gone physically but not forgotten and what we do individually and collectively to lessen the daily toll on gun violence in our communities and in our country is then worthy tribute to this young man whom we will sorely miss. Nathaniel Tyler Johnson. 25 June 2007—14 August 2021. Your work is done. Ours remains with our actions determining so much for so many. Rest in peace, young man, rest in peace.
M. Bowman, M.D.
It Flourishes Without Favor or Fortune
Gun Violence leading cause of premature death in USA
-More than 38,000 deaths per year
-More than 85,000 injuries per year
-Kills more than 100 Americans daily
-Injures 250 Americans daily
-All numbers are increased 2020/2021 during pandemic
-57% of gun deaths in GA are suicides
-40% of gun deaths are homicides
-Unintentional 1.4%
-Law enforcement 1.1%
-75% of gun partner deaths victims are women
-Georgia has 17th highest rate of gun deaths in the USA
Painful punctuation
Nathaniel Tyler Johnson (Sunrise: 25 June 2007 — Sunset: 14 August 2021)
-Graduated from Project BBUILD mentorship/academic enhancement program Alpha Mu Boule’
-Ceremony of Erudition on 1 August 2021. Entry Freshman Class at Midland Valley High School-CANCELLED
-Death from gunshot wound within his home by misdirected family member-14 August 2021
-Funeral and Burial 21 August 2021
-How it is, is not how it has to remain
We can honor Nathaniel’s memory with actions to decrease inappropriate, gun availability and access
Bowman, M. D.
Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation
Each day steps take us to directions which are divergent but in different ways and with variable means and methods, there is convergence toward that which helps, brings hope, heals and serves God as service is rendered to others. It is singular energy consummate effort which many can never understand. As that good within us flourishes and erupts outward in word and deed, there is easy and joyous focus beyond ourselves as we do with purity and generosity and focus and kindness that which is within us which defies our keeping it, for fear to defile and fracture it thereby making its worth what was rather than what is or what will be.
Our focus in Horizon is constant and secure on the doing of the simple, pure and pregnant acts of service which always burgeon to more than they were at inception or conception of that which becomes that consummate great thing which improves, enhances, uplifts and makes extraordinary consequences from seeming ordinary makings. The deeper look oft reveals true jewels where the callous glance showed just the common, ordinary—even deficient. Horizon’s easy adage and unwavering mantra—From Him; to Us; to Others channels our gaze, our hearing and our hearts as we look and really see—as we listen and really hear. He then reveals that which is there—truth and light and spirit deeply endowed beyond the obvious and poised to do good and great things. Anointment becomes appointment and the wish and present deed then becomes the reality of NOW and all that comes forth that Faith and Love gave hope and confidence of from the very start. Such is this time for Horizon as we pay forward bounty of faith and love and confidence in God’s will and His plan for each of us and for others in ways starting to evolve and become known—from Him; to Us; to Others—in service—of Him and of others.
Bowman, M. D.
Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation
Horizon Foundation helped the Paine College Alumni Association with fundraiser/car wash and donation appeal at Mercedes-Benz of Augusta. It was a beautiful festive day accentuated by sumptuous barbecue, open air fellowship and comradery. It was led by Horizon CEO, De Pierce and Paine Alumnus, former County Commissioner and consummate community servant, Bill Fennoy. There were many cars that came dirty but left much cleaner and many wallets which were lighter all for a good cause-helping the inaugural golf program at Paine College which received a major contribution from the Augusta National Golf Club—Home of the MASTERS. It will also be aided by efforts and donations in honor of Golf Great, Lee Elder, the first African American to play in the MASTERS. This year, he was honorary starter for the esteemed golf tournament and received an Honorary Doctor of Letters Degree from Paine College. The event at Mercedes-Benz of Augusta was indeed a great event for a great purpose for a great HBCU, Paine College of wonderful, Augusta, Georgia—and a good time was had by all with generous funds raised and donated for a deserving institution and a great cause.
Bowman, M. D.
Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation
It was another beautiful Saturday morning in Warren County Georgia. I was blessed to be a servant with Pastor Lowe and the congregation of Stamp Branch Baptist Church. As they do each month, they fed 150 families with a full grocery list of fresh produce, staples and meats for family needs. I was blessed to be there and to serve as I do monthly. My patient, Ms. Beaurine Wilkins, and her family directly lead the way. There is nothing but love and faith and joy as the uniting elixir in this mix. We served the people, then Rev. Lowe provided a delicious meal for all of the volunteers. I am always blessed to be part of this union. I always leave inspired to do more. To God Be The Glory. I updated the group about COVID 19 and the need to get the vaccine for those who have not. I encouraged children from 12 and over to get the Pfizer vaccine. I updated the group that the J and J vaccine was good but NOT for women of child bearing or premenopausal age where cerebral clot problems had occurred. It was a great day for COVID education, vaccine emphasis, feeding needy families, enjoying Christian fellowship and serving GOD.
Bowman, M. D.
Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation
Hearty members of Stamp Branch Baptist Church of Warren County, Staff from Golden Harvest Food Bank in Augusta, local members of the Georgia National Guard, citizen volunteers and Dr. Mac Bowman of Horizon Foundation met on a crisp, cool, sunny day at the Community Center in Warrenton, GA to celebrate April Foods Day. With a major outlay of support from food provision partner, Golden Harvest Food Bank, Ms. Beaurine Wilkins and her group provided bountiful boxes of staples, meats, fresh produce, milk, eggs, fruit and vegetables. Hundreds of grateful citizens, challenged severely during the pandemic were buoyed by the loving and friendly reception of this energetic group. About 350 families were provided healthy nourishment for a week to help to resurrect their bodies and spirits as we approach celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. What a great way to commemorate as we serve God by our tangible service to others.
Dr. Mac Bowman
Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation
On Saturday, 24 April 2021, I attended one of my favorite places in Augusta, The Lucy Laney Museum of Black History. A torrential rainstorm welcomed me prior to the always warm greeting of the staff lead by Ms. Linda Johnson, Executive Director. I always learn something or gain heightened appreciation for something or someone of key importance in African American history. The present exhibits highlighted African American golfers including Lee Elder, the first African American to play in Augusta’s premier golf tournament, The Masters. I was blessed to meet him and watch him play in that historic event. I have had the honor of meeting and talking with him on other occasions. He is always a gentle and genuine man of accomplishments, generosity and humility. This year he shared honorary starter duties with Jack Nicklaus. The Museum highlighted not only Mr. Elder who was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Letters degree from Paine College but also of Augusta Native, Jim Dent, a recent inductee to the World Golf Hall of Fame and others.
Today, the purpose of my visit was to receive The Christine Miller-Betts Legacy Award for “talents, times and treasures” with the Museum. I received it as part of this year’s Virtual Gala during the pandemic. It was a surprise and certainly humbling for me as I look upon anything that I have ever done to benefit the Museum was of greater benefit and enhancement to me and my appreciation of our history and its importance in our presence and our future. It was and is a truly great honor for me. I will continue to be and avid supporter and at the top of the list of those who appreciate the value, purpose and importance of The Museum in Augusta and beyond. I thank The Board and Staff of the The Museum for the beautiful award endowed with wonderful and kind words and a beautiful picture of Ms. Laney, a justifiably esteemed and honored individual in the annals of the history of Augusta, of Georgia and of The United States of America. I encourage readers of this summation to participate in this year’s Virtual Gala and honor the legacy of so many including Ms. Laney and recently retired Executive Director, Ms. Christine Miller-Betts with a personally enriching visit to The Museum, but also with a generous donation to assure the financial stability of this venerable institution and also with efforts to help with repair of the elevator which will assure that no area is inaccessible to visitors regardless of their physical limitations.
I close by sharing this great honor for me personally parallel with two additional very special points of note. The 24th was my son, Marc’s 32nd birthday. Happy Birthday, Son. Secondly, he celebrated and gave a wonderful gift to himself and to our family with his engagement to his lovely, Haili Egbert. It was thus a special day in multiple ways. Congratulations Marc and Haili.
Bowman, M. D.
Horizon Foundation
At the beginning and end of every day,
And at times in between, with actions which swing or sway,
Or that move staunchly forward to chosen goal on steady path
In constant pursuit, antegrade and in aftermath,
Of all that targets the Greater Good.
Our will, wishes, actions and wants,
Body, heart, soul and sinew,
Muscles, mind and spirit—
Laser focused all, with movement forward
Toward that which makes it worth it.
With commonality and purpose,
Our bond and our brand unite us,
As we find greater times and tiers of service–
All for the Greater Good.
Like infantry soldiers,
Ever charged to achieve their mission,
We reconnoiter, then plan, then march
Toward oft fragile victories yet to be ours—
–in our personal lives
–our families
–our professions
–our institutions
–in our businesses.
Success of failure is there within the balance
For individuals in that which we aspire to do.
Our goals are bold, and big, and brilliant,
But, still, small and detailed and altruistic—
Aimed unerringly, deliberately, with no hesitation,
Toward the Greater Good
For each of us—
In our lives,
In our families,
In our homes,
In our communities,
In our country,
In our world.
Ever riveted, we must do all within us
To make this world—
Our world—better than we found it
For ALL who live in it
Now and in the future—
As we here must do,
They must then do the same
And so it goes on in perpetuity.
Pressing mission it is,
Anointed, for sure,
As we love and serve God and our fellow man.
The Greater Good then is there
For each of us to share,
The very best of ourselves with the other.
Bowman, M. D
Horizon Foundation—06 Feb 2021
Busy month for Horizon Foundation
Part of our mission is education. Under the auspices of Horizon Foundation, I have done Zoom conferences of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc Chapter in Aiken, SC. I presented a Zoom talk for the Aiken Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc. Chapter on 5 Feb on specifics of heart health and what individuals could do to lessen cardiovascular risk. On Saturday, 6 Feb., I was blessed to be a part of a tremendous Zoom conference with over 200 ladies registered from prominent Sorority, religious and service groups. It was exquisite in every way and I was BLESSED to be a part of it. I presented a discussion of heart health and Black History with Ms. Lucy Craft Laney’s gargantuan presence in education in Augusta but also similar sentinel and signature involvement in advancing healthcare for African Americans in Augusta. She founded the Lamar School of Nursing in 1894 graduating its first class in 1896. It moved into the new University Hospital in 1915 educating over 1100 African American Nurses. It merged with the Barrett School of Nursing for Caucasian Nurses in 1965 to become the University Hospital School of Nursing, one of the first integrated Schools of Nursing in the South. So, Ms. Laney’s footprint was well beyond just education, it was also on the profession of nursing and on healthcare in Augusta and the south in general. I have another coming up with the Ladies of DST of the Thomson (my home town) graduate chapter—also on heart health. As the month evolves, there will be a few more Zoom talks to get the word out on Heart Health. We will have our annual Fundraiser Raffle with the winner driving off in a 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 sports utility vehicle. We usually have our biggest health screening as part of that event. That will not be done this year because of COVID 19. The Zoom meetings, continues to educate but in-person screenings will await lessening effects of the pandemic. Horizon continues to do its work with Stamp Branch Baptist Church Food Ministry as well as Major Signature Donation on 11 Feb to Hope House (Rotary Club of Augusta Signature Fundraiser-partner). Horizon donated $ 1000 earlier to Hope House which aids displaced or substance compromise women. As Rotary Club of Augusta designated Signature donation recipient, Hope House will receive $25,000 from car raffle fundraising efforts. Past Signature recipients from the Horizon-Rotary of Augusta partnership have benefited Christ Community which aids in healthcare provision and care for uninsured/underinsured in Augusta, and Childhood Advocacy Council/Child Enrichment which supports and benefits children involved in legal systems as victims or otherwise. All are great organizations and vehicles of service to others in our community.
Bowman, M. D.
This is February, Heart Month. We emphasize those things which, if consumed into an individual’s psyche and their activity regimen, lessens their incidence of developing cardiovascular disease. Specifically, by consuming, processing and actuating these recommendations, they lessen their likelihood of having a heart attack or stroke. In women as in men, the single highest cause of morbidity and mortality is cardiovascular disease. The four major risk factors/risk equivalents are:
1. High blood pressure – BP > 134/84
2. Diabetes – Fasting blood sugar >106 or Hemoglobin A1c (90 day average sugar) > 5.7. If one is already being treated for diabetes, treatment goal is for this to be <6.5 or as low as possible with dietary, activity and medication therapy);
3. Cholesterol levels – Total cholesterol 120-180. HDL (good cholesterol)-> 40 (the higher—the better; it increases with regular exercise and good diet). LDL should be lower than 85 in general. For diabetics, it should be lower-50-75. Triglycerides should be less than 150. Levels increase with increased sugar and carbohydrate ingestion.
4. Smoking and nicotine use daily—NONE.
On a recent Webinar held during Heart Month, three beautiful ladies shared their stories of survival, change, rehabilitation and progress beyond pain and life threatening compromise. The first detailed her having persistently unusual symptoms of shoulder pain, malaise, profound weakness and fatigue and ultimately nausea and a true inability to continue work activity as a schoolteacher. She was actually teaching her class and dealing with the ominous thoughts as her situation worsened, that an ambulance or EMS would have to come to extract her from her classroom further traumatizing her students. But, “out of the mouths of babes,” they were already engaged and emphasized to her that she was really sick and that she should sit, call for help/call 911 which she ultimately did. Her heeding warnings finally and listening to her students. She was taken by ambulance to the hospital and was confirmed to be having a heart attack. She emergent care and all ended well. Her artery was opened and normal function restored. She was back in her classroom without restrictions a short time later. The lesson here which emphasizes is to listen to your body. Women’s symptoms of heart attack may be different from the central chest pressure, burning or heaviness that men get. Their discomfort may be shoulder, back or neck—or none at all if they are diabetic who may have no pain or discomfort, just severe shortness of breath, fatigue, sweating, nausea and weakness. This lady ultimately listened her inner voice and to her students and made the call that saved her life. She now back to full activity status with healthier eating and exercise habits in place to lessen recurrent cardiovascular events.
The second young lady was similar but different. Her symptoms were the more classic of central chest heaviness with radiation to her left arm. She had nausea and profound weakness. She knew the warning signs, because, unlike the previous lady, she had a very positive family history with other women in her family as well as men who had had cardiac events. Positive family history portends increased risk subsequently. A very high risk association is that of a first degree relative, especially another female, who has had a cardiac event before 55. The younger the occurrence, the more ominous the association. Though it is not guaranteed that such an individual will have a cardiac event, there is predictable increased risk. Such an individual should be proactively aggressive at regularly assessing her risk assessment numbers and be lifestyle and medication compliant to keep them within optimal range. This young lady, at age< 55, did indeed have precocious and predictable severe coronary disease. She knew the signs and called for emergent care. She was found to have blockages that could not be fixed with stents. She had successful bypass surgery, went through rehabilitation and is now back at full tilt as a vocal advocate to women and others to identify and reduce their cardiovascular risk. The lesson here is those individuals who know by family history and abnormal numbers earlier in their lives are obligated to be prophylactically aggressive to lower or resolve these risk accelerators BEFORE a potentially fatal event occurs. She is alive and doing well and is helping to save lives by sharing her story.
The last story shared was a courageous young lady who had less severe cardiac issues but life threatening related to breast cancer. I had known this young lady and had been blesses to be her cardiologist. We had long since stabilized her minor heart rhythm issues with change in the things she ate or ingested like caffeine in coffee or colas. She also discontinued chocolates and other high carbohydrate ingestions. She regularly exercised and avoided over the counter stimulants which contained pseudoephedrine, ginseng or ginkoba—all of which can make the heart skip or race. So this was a minor issue for her. Her more major issue which she shared was her developing breast cancer. She is a smart, courageous and spiritually driven young lady who marshalled all forces- faith, family, friends and her own intellect and personal fortitude to emerge the victor. She learned those things about how the body reacts to things we eat and do. She knew that she could mobilize her own healing forces by changing diet and becoming an energetic and well informed advocate and now expert, on natural forms of healing. She is an excellent example of the positive and healing forces which can be called forth from within us and move us toward healing and better health. She is living testimony to just that.
Here during Month, these stories of survival and the aftermath of not just recovery but of triumph and progress to greater levels of service to others. These ladies have advanced their lives and the lessons on their own adversity to become very positive and exemplary advocates to show others what is possible through knowledge, intervention and change. They are beautiful teachers to their sisters and others of the advantages of personal awareness, prudent nutrition and healthy eating, regular exercise, active faith and spirituality in achieving personal healing and stability. We thank them for the lessons they teach with their words and —with their lives.
Bowman, M. D.
Horizon Foundation 07 Feb 2021
This has been another tough week of profound and painful things which cannot find space or distance of separation. Tiny moments of solace of points of peace hide with the expertise of a stealth ninja and leave me waiting and wanton in search of that which settles the soul, calms the mind and salves the spirit. It is futile for seconds and minutes and hours and days as a week is done with no relief in sight. The wish and will to run and seek shelter beyond light and the eyes of others. No voices within my head or without call for explanation or knowledge about what I hide within. There is always and search and a battle to stay secure –at least as I see it. The frailty of that thought is shown in a minute and broken ideas lay harmlessly fractured and are no threat nor possibility anything meaningful.
This morning, he lay there dying and moaning the pain of his last fleeting minutes. Breath was short and raspy with words which told of his bodies failing struggle. Strong medicines which oft eased troubled bodies and spirits work no more. “It just hurts!” he said. “It is not working; just knock me out.” We all stood and waited for that next move to end the travail and the trouble which had marred the day. She could not even be in the building—the hallway—the room. Miles away she heard the dull words summarizing final minutes and hours. “We will do all we can to save him. He is awake and he is still talking with us.” We do all we can to save him”. Empty words with no touch of days of love and laughter and children and family and days of toil and of happiness. Now there is just pain and breathing and wishing for relief and for that touch, her touch which is not here. Not in this room as the clock continues to run and time is leaving despite that which we do and despite all that plans would have change which did not. And there
Trying for something profound on Sunday.
Busy day and week of combustible things;
There is still little peace and no place or time to sleep.
Wanting a clear and clean thought,
To give something that makes it worth the effort,
I pause and wait for revelation.
It could almost be without worth,
Were it not so obvious to the contrary.
Trying by the steps should work, but fails;
My struggle spreads to you and beyond.
We all suffer with broken hearts,
For the love that we seek—
Love of illusions and delusions. and conceit,
Love of power, without restraint and or limits.
Love that leaves bare and broken the windows which allow light
–and truth and clarity and a view of the best there is.
Is that too that awful search and fearful find?
That discovery which is beyond feigned shroud,
that you hid, and that I hid is here NOW! —
in this place; —at this time.
Beyond the walls with no protection
From the real, the raw—the reticent—
Existence then is the question—
Life or death or that in between.
Day after day, laced with struggle and the strain
Of all that crowds, crowns, and suffocates,
The journey continues, nonetheless,
And the approach to some reality has yet to find the light of day.
We seek clairvoyance and a wish to lift the weight.
My wish, my want is to do that which I should cede to others—-
The great among us, whom I still deny
As they wait further for that which I wish to just stop,
–letting them win and abdicate the plow
Which holds my hand firm on handle, with rows and turns of soil
Seen with smell and color of that which brings life forth
As garden grows to be that which we should see and eat.
then health and happiness should be somewhere here.
Somewhere with no further walk for me
Or you and the games yet still are played.
To pretend but still know the truth
As it stabs deeply to mind, heart and soul.
And still looking for something profound on Sunday,
I give in and give up –
As he sits with tilted hat on a wall,
With your peace and mine in his hand
With his shovel or hoe or his rake,
There is power there—- with HIM;
Not with you nor me as HE is always there.
Even when he is not. Even when WE are there
Together, or each alone.
Words are rarely said but the power Is immediate and extreme.
It travels and lodges beyond escape
As our search continues for each other
And a world, not polluted,
With nothing there that is touched or stained.
A place of new beginnings—
Where we are free to love again,
And touch and feel and see and be;
Something profound on Sunday? —
Maybe, this time, HE is not there
In flesh nor fantasy,
With evil thoughts or those things which rob
The kind—the well thinking or the means and motives –
For that which raises all up,
From you and I to all of those with whom we share—
THIS space– at THIS time.
Those that see,
And feel that which do we
And we are free—to live and to love and to BE;
To be in ways which seek and find the spectacular
And lifts us and all beyond mere ordinary things.
As the wine of our days is drank
And savored—slowly –till empty bottle
Leaves charged spirits yet reflexes blunted by that inside,
And muddled mind then no better than on other days.
Yes, thus stalled, seek then again; Profound on Sunday? —
Ready to begin again to make the next beyond the last,
And all is clear as never before.
Not here. Not today-
And not ONE—NOW— HERE– in this place
but YOU, bears the mantle or the blame
nor stakes the claim for ALL that is risked or
Serves as just recompence or paltry reward
For us, as wayward travelers
Who are accidental seeking to be real.
Bowman, M. D.
31 January 2021
Not accidental or by happenstance,
Special with earmark, not accidental or per chance.
Then there are the scar marks of peculiarity
Which makes for that beyond the norm.
The battles waged and scars of circumstance,
Which makes for that which would not otherwise be.
I have heard the stories of what occurred,
As well as why it did not then and now is.
I know despite all that was, why this was not,
As well as why this now reigns– and is.
I have explanations on both sides,
To explain why or make excuse.
Knowing the truths from within and above,
There are whys for those who need them,
And why nots for those who don’t.
As here it ends, beyond words or phrases of explanation,
That which is particular and peculiar rules the day,
And there is the truth of what is, despite and because of.
That journey moves past ordinary to that which stands alone,
And circumstances which feigned mortality proved the opposite,
Despite set odds.
And concrete certainties, defied beyond known bounds.
The story, now told, with fables of what has never been,
But now what is, as standard for aspiration and beyond.
Devine purposes, even preparation cast shadow
Where none has ever been,
As what is particular and peculiar,
Rules the day, reigns supreme and leads the way.
Explanations, descriptions and impotent words,
For that which is and, despite all which countered it,
Now is the standard of that which draws all looks and stares.
The motion toward the next mission, is ever modified,
As the impossible has now been done,
And new legends are now conceived,
By lonesome witness set to achieve;
And all that is his or hers to have,
Is tempered, tamed and tested
And made to be that which without such, would not be,
That which is particular and like none other,
With peculiar cast by toil and accident,
Is now exceptional and stands alone,
Poised and posed with prime temperament,
Toward that which others shun;
Standing and looking firmly forward,
—and called to
The Needs, Names and Nuances of NOW.
MBmd 24 Jan 2021
As I have gotten older and grown in the ways of the world and beyond, I take pleasure in seeing easily those blessings, simple and complex, which God places to be seen, appreciated and engaged. I have learned that this appreciation does not require a special day or time though rules do no allow that it can’t be. This is the weekend preceding the birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., fabled patriarch of the civil rights movement in America and Nobel Peace Prize winner. Within the ravages of COVID 19, this year’s commemoration of his birthday throughout the country was centered on simple foci of service to others that could be accomplished with health centered and socially acceptable means to limit health risks during a time when >3000 people daily in the United States are dying for the coronavirus.
This Saturday morning was one of exquisite beauty. It was clear and crisply cold with a brilliant sunshine to bath us in a heavenly way. After awakening in a favorite mode, with my 19-month-old grandson saying “up, up” and leading me to the refrigerator for milk or fruit, I felt an excitement and anxious anticipation for that which was to come. My grandson, Maddux, and I did our Saturday morning ritual of truck and car play with intermittent fruit, milk and cereal with his favorite show “Word Party” as our background. The morning quickly passed and his dad, my son, Marc, came to collect him to take him home. Though I would have loved to share more time with him, this morning I had a command visit with Ms. Beaurine Wilkins, Rev. Lowe, and the Soldiers of Service at Stamp Branch Baptist Church in beautiful, rural Warren County. Ms. Wilkins is a longtime patient of mine. She is a loyal and steadfast member of Stamp Branch. For more than 10 years, she has served the citizens of this area as an Angel of Mercy providing food one or more Saturdays per month through the beautiful and welcoming arms of Stamp Branch. On a given Saturday, they may provide for 150-200 families. During the pandemic there may be BMWs or Cadillacs as easily as Fords, Chevys or Toyotas. So many struggle and exist on the brink or beyond. There are no questions or judgement here at Stamp Branch — just smiles and laughter and love and prayer and HELP. The pandemic has challenged all echelons of society and has made many who always had now without. For them, like those who were challenged before and remain so, Ms. Wilkins, “Sarge,” and the Service Soldiers are there to lessen burdens as they can on brilliant Saturday mornings of love and service. The line of cars as I arrived was backed up in front of the beautiful church. All was pandemically correct for those of us who volunteered to either load boxes or carry food to the waiting cars. Ms. Wilkins also had a list of county residents who had needs but either no transportation or being too frail or ill to come to pick up the week’s nourishment. For these, arrangements are routinely made to deliver food and nourishment to them. It is a tight and efficient ship. Temperatures are taken on all with masks required and gloves for those who handled food. In addition to the staples of the church’s well stocked pantry, this Saturday there were fresh eggs, beautiful and delicious bags of apples and over 100 bunches of fresh collards procured by miraculous ways by Ms. Wilkins and her troop.
Ms. Wilkins had “summoned” me on Friday evening. I had been many times before. Even as a willing sponsor who is blessed to help fulfill this very important need, I am often at conflict with demands of work competing. This Saturday, all lined up well and I was pleased to join them in this service to God and to our fellow citizens. As stated, I had been her cardiologist for years. She always comes in with a brisk spirit, energetic carriage and a beautiful smile which is infectious as it fills and commands a room. I asked her once as I do many of my patients “tell me about your day”. “Tell me what you do to bring you the most happiness in your life.” I have received many answers as one would imagine. Ms. Wilkins easily and quickly came forward with her joy in serving God, serving and working at her church, Stamp Branch with her pastor, Rev. Lowe—and, as much as anything, serving with her brothers and sisters of the Food Ministry. Now one has to understand, this is no amateur, small time outfit and operation. As a labor of love to feed their fellow citizens, these beautiful brothers and sisters have done this anointed work of feeding those who had needs as well as challenges for more than 10 years in God’s way—without pity, intrusive questions or judgement. They do it with joy, and love, and laughter. They all work. No big I or little you. They just do God’s work in God’s work. There is prayerful word and action throughout and all there are blessed in the best of ways. They have turned the basement of their Family Life Center into a well-stocked pantry for routine and emergency needs identified for area food distribution. They have been recognized by Golden Harvest Food Bank and many others for the excellence of their work. Nobody is there looking for credit—they are there just to do God’s work in God’s way.
I am blessed that God put Ms. Wilkins and Stamp Branch in my life. When she told me of what brought her such joy, Stamp Branch Food Ministry, I wrote her a check from my Horizon Foundation. As she told me about it, I heard God’s clarion call that this was something my Horizon Foundation should be a part of fiscally and physically. She had me come down and I have since returned multiple times. Each time is an unadulterated joy. There is so much love, and faith and joy and GOD with these gatherings that wish you could always come and just be in service-of God and of our fellow man. We often look far and in difficult places for that which moves us beyond the frailties of life and mundane existence. I would invite you to Stamp Branch on a Saturday morning with the Service Soldiers-doing God’s work in God’s way. I suggest wearing comfortable clothes and shoes. When you come, watch, just for a second till you hear from “Sarge (Ms. Wilkins} – “I am glad you made it, Baby, but fill up that box and take it out to the tables. We all work here. You got to get moving cause these cars are going to be coming in a minute and we want to have their food ready for them.”
So, this Saturday morning, like many I have spent at Stamp Branch with Ms. Wilkins, Rev. Lowe and the Service Soldiers, was, like each in the past, an anointed time of joyful interaction, faith, worship and love. She often tells me of how I bless the food ministry as a committed sponsor. What she needs to fully appreciates is how she, Stamp Branch and the Service Soldiers bless me in their true love, and faith, and joy as they praise God and worship in SERVICE. It is my mantra, not just to tell God how much I appreciate what He has done and, in my life, –but to show Him in action—what better way than in service to our brothers and sisters in times of need. What a joyous morning. What a joyous day. We fed the hungry and ministered to their spirits and ours. She and Rev. Lowe then allowed me to update all on the COVID pandemic and present vaccine update. The infection continues to run rampant in all communities. I told those in attendance that I think the vaccines are God’s gift and part of the answer which man has available to lessen infections and end the pandemic. I strongly encouraged all to get vaccinated and that each should check with their county Health Department for vaccine administration and scheduling.
I thank God for all that He provides in times of challenge and in times of plenty. Truly it is, has been and will be—From Him –to us—to others—in service. If you want to know how it is done, visit Stamp Branch in Warren County on Saturday morning of the Food Distribution—but I warn you—dress comfortably. Don’t come to watch (you just get your feelings bruised cause “Sarge” is not shy); come to work, love, pray—and SERVE. What a blessing! Stamp Branch Food Ministry—Service Soldiers.
Bowman, M. D.
Horizon Foundation
Today’s pain and all I dread to remember;
Or memory fails—and I am free
To raise my head and rest my mind
And leave troubled times and thoughts behind.
Strength is found where there was none,
As steps are taken with choices to make.
Wishful fantasy of ease and that
Where no struggle is.
For who? Not me for sure, is true.
Perhaps for him or her or you.
For me none such can be my lot
As such belongs to others.
I cannot say why it does not change
As I rise, attempt to shine and cast no blame
For that which dwells and leaves no scars
Though such has never been plight or ploy
As I toil then rest to begin again
To make my way to home and hearth
And to the peace which may be.
There were tough and tortuous trails.
I avoided none and felt that they were duly mine;
They were not to have pits and ruts removed,
More, in fact, would be my lot
With no tears in answer as
The ravages of time and circumstance
Mellows that which could end it all.
So tomorrow again comes and I know that
No such end is there for me.
To live and rise and fight again
Never to give in with mercy’s song;
Tomorrow will come,
And rise I will, tough work awaits
That is mine.
Mine alone and no one else
To share the pleasure or the pain
Or feel moments empty or full
With still the same need
To move forward and get it done.
Yet knowing what awaits the next day ,
On the next road—too!
Only for ME—Not you
And ever I embrace what is mine,
As others leave with laughter.
Bowman, M. D.
10 January 2021
What dessert waits there to see and have and eat?
What morsels of that which is sweet,
With flavours, special made to delight
And not disappoint while leaving more to want.
What joy which is not earned
Nor deserved by any or all
Waits without request or call,
It is there at no request
With satiety of what is savored.
On other days, many sins prevail
Despite better intent and counsel
What one merits is not received
Whether prayer or ploy intercedes,
No justice rendered
Now clear and free,
Deceptive delusions that live in lies
As only friends from God abide.
And life continues
And night falls to end again with morning
And all begins anew
Another day is there
With nothing different to do.
M. Bowman, M. D. 10 January 2021
December in Georgia tends to traditionally be a very wet and rainy time. In late December or early January, we are cast in the afterglow or present flash of points of interest during a festive holiday season. Per this norm, my primary office nurse, Mrs. Jeanette Hankins, was on her daily drive home after a busy day seeing patients with me in the office. She was rehashing many things including specifics of her day as well as her joyous recent visit by her brilliant engineer daughter, Jordyn, who had started her first job as a mechanical engineer at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma after a stellar tenure as as a scholar-athlete (heptathlete) at Alabama A and M University (Cum Laude graduate despite varsity athletics and personal significant illness/injury challenges during her senior year). Her short time at home had been much enjoyed by her devoted and supportive mother and father. One could not then blame Mrs. Hankins to be otherwise focused beyond the vision that presented itself to her in a momentary glimpse.
By the side of the road, amidst furnishings and household goods, she saw a family– a man, a woman and three small children. She initially felt that they perhaps were moving as they were moving amidst furniture objects and other things there. She felt that it was unusual that such was the case in the dreary, cold, and wet environment. There was a level of unease that she could not shake. Rather than continuing to focus on recent holiday and the visit of her daughter, she paused and turned around to go back for a further look. The individuals whom she had seen previously were no longer there. The feeling of unease continued. As the very spiritual woman that she is, she asked God that He again allow interface with the individuals whom she had initially seen and distractedly driven past. Such soon became divine reality. As she drove back by prayerfully beseeching His Grace, His Mercy and His intercession at this point of angst and concern in her journey home on behalf of people that she had seen but did not even know. During her return passage, she was elated to find that THIS TIME, they were again there. She stopped, got out, introduced herself and heard their unfortunate story. They were not moving; they had been evicted. On this cold and wet day, they had nowhere to go, nowhere to be, nowhere to stay. The Mother had recently recovered from COVID-19 and had lost her job during her illness. The father had had to take time away from work in an auto dealership to help care for their small children while his wife was significantly ill. They had subsequently, like so many, fallen behind in rent and other expenses. Mrs. Hankins had prayer with them at the side of the road and got information about further contact. Again, she had looked and initially a visage of a perceived move after subsequent deeper investigation and a closer look, what she saw was actually a family which had been evicted and was in fairly dire straits. She looked and subsequently, she really saw the reality of what was.
Rather than just feeling sorry or rendering pity, she activated a prayer model asking God for something that could be done to help them. She listened to their sad story and really heard their story AND their HEARTS. She looked and she really saw. She listened and she really heard. She came back to the office and asked to speak with me. She is a quiet, elegant, constantly spiritual woman whom I respect and appreciate beyond measure. Like with a previous investment broker, when she speaks, I have learned to listen and really hear. Her words are ever beyond the usual verbal clutter and noise. She told me of what she had seen and the details of their story which she had heard. She had, however, gone the next step and got contact information that we could use and bring forward to help with what she had been allowed to see and hear. I told her quickly that we should contact them and tangibly actuate a plan to positively alter present dire circumstances. We did. They came to the office and we discussed their circumstances and had prayer with them. My prayer was that the assistance rendered would be the seed to good and better things for them and their family. As I prayed with them putting hands to shoulders in my office lobby, I reminded them of God’s love for them. I prayed for them to continue to keep the faith, love each other, and know always that despite arduous circumstances, that God loved them and that how they were was not the end of their story.
They had found a small economy place to rent but had not the funds for the deposit, the move and, the utilities or food and subsistence. The blessings of Horizon Foundation were that it was positioned to help in impromptu urgent circumstance. It had been able to consistently stand in the gap to help those adversely affected by the pandemic whether for provision of clothes, food through church food banks, community efforts such as Mercy Ministries or Our Brother’s Keeper. We immediately provided funds to culminate their rental opportunity and to provide further rent and funds for food and utilities for them and their children. This was not just a futile charity case. These folks both had worked hard all of their lives and their circumstances now had been urgently altered by illness through no fault of theirs. Their need, like that of so many during this difficult time was dire and acute with their immediate fate and that of their children being firmly at risk. They were not lazy or hapless or looking for a handout as many conclude when eviction propels families to homelessness.
We were blessed in having a spiritually directed heart and a willingness to be that vehicle of change in her simple act of kindness; such were the blessed actions and efforts of Mrs. Hankins. We were blessed that she looked and really saw — that she listened and really heard.
Horizon Foundation is blessed with so many who continue to support its work and the efforts. Such generosity allowed this rainy day in Georgia to end with warmer and drier circumstances for this wonderful family. They are one of many that we have been blessed to help. We pray that as we move forward into 2021 we will continue to learn the lessons of this singular example- to look and really see– to listen and really hear and necessary to make a positive difference rather in small circumstances or those more major. I do not know what will happen with this family long term. We touch bases and follow up as he returns to work and as she gains other employment. That is not quiet has been rendered to me to know at this time. What I do know is that at this sentinel moment in time, when catastrophic possibilities were certainly there for this family, God allowed Horizon and it’s able helpers like Mrs. Hankins and those who have contributed to Horizon to allow the immediacy of support to make a difference in this family’s life. I am thus emboldened and encouraged that there are truly better days to come, for this family as well as to all with whom we interface during points of need, controversy, economic, physical or health challenges. Such will be what continues to drive our will and our ways as we move forward focused on advancing God’s blessings –From him, to us, to others. This simple adage, this mantra is more than what we just repeatedly say. It is what we feel and is why we exist and why God continues to bless us—De, Ms. Hankins, Ms. D’Antignac, Ms. Sullivan, Ms. Brady, Ms. McNeil and me. He knows that He can trust us to do anointed things, simple or big– good and great things in His name. Daily, we look and we really see; we listen and really hear that which needs to be and ultimately, what must be done and will be done for the individual and collective greater good. To God be the Glory.
Mac Bowman, M. D.
Founder, Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation
2020 has been a year of profound, even catastrophic challenges in communities throughout America and the world. We have quickly, painfully and sadly learned of a disease which few us had even heard of last Christmas and now we daily review news of thousands of new infections across our country with more than 3400 deaths daily. Were that not trauma enough, we have had recurring eruptions of social unrest triggered by systemic failures to resolve and grow positively beyond cultural, systemic, equity and racial bias failings. It would seem easy to follow the adage of treating others as we would choose to be treated or to just “love your neighbor.” Sometimes in our complex, convoluted world, the simplest conclusions, decisions and actions become the most complex , convoluted and difficult to achieve-peace, love, health, good will, fairness, and good, balanced and equitable treatment for all. Flavored with heavy portions of inflammatory rhetoric from our most visible leaders as well as from our less renown and previously inconspicuous neighbors, we have filled the hospitals and the streets of America with personal and collective rage, destruction, sickness and death. Were that not enough, the economic sequelae of the signature challenges to health and wellbeing as well as the societal issues which have interrupted peace and prosperity, have left many on the brink of personal and family destruction. The stock markets prowess has persevered and even grown wealth for many of comfortable means while many who had jobs and success last Christmas now are recovering from illness, mourning lost love ones, spending hours in lines for food and clothing gifts as jobs and paychecks have evaporated and are but a distant memory. Today, thoughts of past comfort and prosperity are but haunting mirages, as moments lend poignant reflections to just a year ago when jobs and all that came with them were as constant as the glorious morning sun and the glitterings stars at night.
In this time, there are varied reasons for each of us to feel and focus upon the “slings and arrows of outrageous fortune…” The desire to leave our circumstances, move, leave, quit—just go away finds us then, there finally, but, disappointingly, no better off there than here. So we are challenged to look within ourselves to the core of our being for that nidus of strength and resilience which channels that next step toward that next better day. We look around us at all there of common and positive purpose—family, friends and well intentioned strangers/neighbors. We look above with prayerful spirits and hearts, confirmed faith and knowledge of God’s Will and His infinite power. With Love and Faith and our individual and collective efforts we can negotiate the next difficult moment and hours and days until better times prevail. This journey is certainly not an easy one or for the faint of heart or weak of spirits. A quote attributed to Churchill voices that “ if you are going through hell, keep going!” Common sense, but well chosen advice applicable to each of us enduring the challenges of this time—“just keep going!” That is my chose for me and those of my family, friends and allies during this difficult journey. As a physician, COVID 19 as borne bare on days, heart and mind and soul and body and spirit. I pray daily for health, strength and the resolve to continue to love and pray and serve and be. I accept my “charge to keep” with relish for the ”God I glorify.” And with certainty, each day I am delivered with Grace and Gratitude to that next plane of service where I embrace the anointed opportunity to do good and great things for those with whom I share this time.
The Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation allows me and others to build upon that which we do for ourselves, our families and those that are close or special to us, to go that next step-to do for those who we may know little or at all to aid strangers and move them as I do move toward and to a higher plane, a better day for each and all of us. So I ”keep walking!” I do not quit. I pray with expectations and with compassion and generosity as well as with FAITH in that which God can do through us, around us, to us and to our world. I then chose to work harder; take good care of myself and others—good nutrition, regular exercise, natural compliments-sunshine, fresh air and Godly visages which ease my eyes, my mind and my sometimes troubled spirits. I uplift in word and deed and touch and show God’s love whenever I can through me and that which He would have me say and do. So through Horizon Foundation I/we serve-God and our fellow citizens on this presently troubled landscape. Our easy and cherished mantra remains in place and resolute and lights our path and I share it with you with joy, anticipation and expectation as we embrace the Origin and accept the challenge, calling , action and success of the middle and end—“From Him—To Us—To Others.” But, of course, it doesn’t end; it magnifies and grows outward and beyond as individual efforts and actions becomes collective and we all move positively and productively forward to better times and circumstances—together.
Mac Bowman, M. D.
Founder, Dr. Mac Bowman Horizon Foundation
Springtime in Augusta, Georgia is a time of incomparable beauty with exquisite blooms and greenery in every direction. The lazy and majestic Savannah River makes casual course through the center of a burgeoning downtown on its trip to our sister city of Savannah, Georgia, our state’s major international port city. March and April of 2020 was to be a premier sports lover’s dream. Our spectacular Mercedez Benz Stadium in Atlanta was to be the site of this year’s NCAA Final Four, college basketball fans heaven on earth. Beyond that, two weeks later, 150 miles east in Augusta, I was prepared to descend from my second Final Four to enjoy my yearly sojourn at the Augusta National Golf Club, the home of The Masters. Having been present at Tiger’s magnificent performance in 2019, I was prepared for another Green Jacket for him at a course which he has, at times, mastered. Such was not to be. As a cardiologist at our largest private hospital and Medical Director of the largest cardiovascular practice group here, my time instead has been spent helping to sculpt plans and contingencies for the rapidly expanding Covid 19 pandemic. Our area and my hospital is holding up well. We have great facilities and a plethora of great healthcare professionals. We are well equipped with all of the essentials. To this point, we are holding well against a ruthless enemy, Covid 19. Our prayers are incessant for His Grace, Mercy and Intercession.
Mac Bowman
Grapter, Alpha Mu
Augusta, Georgia