Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

In this modern era, individuals must be mindful of their surroundings. Unexpected situations can arise even in places where one wouldn't anticipate them, emphasizing the need for a consistently alert mindset. While some people may follow the same daily route without incident, it's the rare "one time" that can catch them off guard. On January 20, 2024, around 8:00 PM, a local man, accustomed to walking through his neighborhood after visiting a store on Winnsboro Rd., experienced an unsettling event. As he passed the gas pumps at a business establishment, three young men unexpectedly called out to him, saying, “Come here.” Despite noticing them by the pumps, the man continued minding his own business. Moments later, he heard movement behind him while walking down the street – the same three individuals who had called out earlier. One of them brandished a handgun, demanding the man hand over his money. Without panicking or arguing, the man handed over all the money he had. Uncovered faces revealed their intentions as they uttered threatening words. Unsure of their next move, the man refrained from attempting to escape.

The man found himself surrounded, facing the terrifying prospect of one individual expressing a desire to harm him with a bullet. Recognizing the real possibility of being shot or killed, the man noted that one of the individuals seemed indifferent to the consequences. However, an unexpected turn of events unfolded. As they continued conversing with the man, they apologized, attributing their change of heart to perceiving him as an "old dude/senior citizen." Although the apology brought some relief, the man remained uncertain about their sincerity in sparing his life. Expressing appreciation for the gesture, he was allowed to leave. Walking away slowly, the man couldn't shake the thought of whether they might still decide to shoot him. Grateful for escaping the armed robbery unharmed, he hoped that law enforcement would swiftly apprehend the three individuals, preventing them from robbing others. His gratitude extended to the higher power, acknowledging his fortunate outcome. Praise God.