Dear Readers:
Ten years ago, I wrote my first column for the Acworth Community Newsletter. I remember the letter like it was yesterday: a woman wrote about how lonely she was at home when her husband went on his yearly hunting trips. I wrote back with what I hoped was helpful advice — Find something that really interests you and use the time to indulge in it. Take up knitting, painting, reading or anything else that you really enjoy. That way you will look forward to hubby’s time away just as much as he does. What I didn’t expect was the flood of letters that followed, each one inviting me into someone’s world and asking for a little guidance.
That first letter marked the beginning of my monthly advice column, though at the time, I didn’t think of it as anything more than a chance to share some thoughts. A decade later, I’m still here, humbled and amazed by the trust this community has shown me. Writing this column has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.
Over the years, the questions have been as diverse as the people who send them. I’ve helped people with challenges during the holidays, given pep talks to teens worried about fitting in, and even offered advice on tactfully getting unwanted guests to leave. Some letters make me laugh out loud, like the time a reader asked for strategies to tell someone that their fly was open. Others weigh heavy on my heart, like when someone asks how to move forward after a loss.
Each letter is a glimpse into a life, and I’ve never taken that lightly. When you write to me, you share your struggles, joys, and sometimes your fears, and I do my best to honor that trust. My responses aren’t perfect — I’m just one person, after all — but they always come from a place of care. That’s why I had to get my friends from all over the area involved in crafting my responses.
What I didn’t expect when I started was how much I would learn from all of you. Your stories have taught me about resilience, creativity, and the power of community. When the world feels overwhelming, your kindness reminds me there’s still so much good in it.
As I reflect on the past 10 years, I feel deeply grateful. You’ve allowed me into your lives, trusted me with your worries, and celebrated your victories with me. Writing this column isn’t just about offering advice; it’s about building connections and reminding one another that we’re never truly alone.
Thank you for letting me be a small part of your lives. Here’s to the next 10 years of laughter, tears, and a little advice along the way.
With all my heart,
A.C. Worth
Do you have a problem that needs some good old-fashioned common-sense advice? AC Worth is ready to help. Send your questions to [email protected]. All correspondence will be kept confidential.
