Putting the Jae in Joy

“The joy we feel has little to do with the circumstances of our lives and everything to do with the focus of our lives.” ~ Russell M. Nelson, religious leader and surgeon.

Jae Haymond, of Beaver Dam, truly personifies that statement.

When someone asks Haymond how he is, he always answers that question the same way.

“I had another good day today.”

That’s because in his 30 years, Haymond said he has never had a bad day.

“Never, never ever,” he said, and perhaps that is because of the focus of his life.

“I love the Lord Jesus Christ. He gives me joy every day when I wake up,” Haymond said. “Joy comes from the Lord.”

Known as a “local celebrity” by many in Ohio County, Haymond said he rarely sees a stranger. That’s because he considers everyone he encounters his friend.

In fact, Haymond said he doesn’t have any enemies.

“They know I am a prayer warrior. When they are having a bad day, I will pray for them and I tell them ‘God bless you,’ and you are going to get through this,” Haymond said as to why everyone considers him a friend.

What makes a good friend?

“Love, joy and making sure they know you love them,” Haymond said. “Tell them you love them. It is important every day.”

Haymond, was recently honored by WBKO as being a Hometown Hero. WBKO recognizes South Central Kentuckians who embody the spirit of service, dedication and concern for the well-being of their neighbors with the title of “Hometown Hero.”

“It meant the world to me (to be honored),” he said. “I never thought I would get an award like that.”

Faith has always been an important aspect of Haymond’s life. He has been going to church every Sunday for as long as he can remember. Church is one of his favorite places to be. He attends Barnes Chapel United Methodist Church where he helps lead the worship service every Sunday, reading scripture and offering a prayer.

Haymond wants to encourage others to get to know Jesus as that is the key to his positive outlook and joy in life.

He finds it easy to witness to others, he said.

“I tell them to trust in the Lord and that if you put your trust in him, everything will be alright.”

When people think of him, Haymond hopes that they consider him to be “a good friend who never has a bad day, never has a bad word to say about nobody, who is always positive and always sees the bright side.”