Living in a
retirement community, I'm always amazed by the individuals I have the
opportunity to get to know. At first glance, it's easy to form a quick opinion:
i.e. successful retired person from Northern Utah or California, happily
married 50 or more years, lots of grandchildren. Later as I get to know my
neighbors better, I learn more about their lives. I'm amazed at the tests many,
if not all of them, have faced during their lifetime: health issues, childless,
never married or lost children in their youth who died or became addicted to
drugs, alcohol or divorce. The list could go on and on.
Yet
they carry on with their lives with a brave smile and hope in their hearts. I
see them as the WINNERS of the personal battles or the testS that we all will face during our lifetime. It may be
the death of a family member, a lost job, broken friendships, disappointments,
cancer or physical disabilities or all of these challenges. We all need each
other's support and love especially within families to carry on plus loyal
friends at our side. Prayers from our hearts for each other's welfare will
strengthen both the giver and the receiver. It keeps HOPE alive!
It’s
amazing how much you can observe others and make assumptions about their lives.
Most individuals are wonderful examples of courage and fortitude when the
unexpected challenges come. A few seem to be burdened and depressed by problems
within their own families. Many hide their grief. It’s shocking when someone
you know tries to take their life by suicide or escape through drugs, alcohol
or other means.
One
of the biggest tests of our busy modern society is making family and personal
relationships a priority in your
daily life while trying to live with optimism, trusting in a higher power and a
purpose for life. Too many of your fellow travelers during their journey on
earth are drowning in addictions, despair and lack of meaning or direction in
their lives. Reach out today to help others; it will lift your spirits. Be
someone else’s cheerleader rather than their critic, especially your own family
and spouse. Count your blessings, if you are lucky enough to have someone by
your side to share your daily walk. It’s time to resolve to be a better person
this year. NEXT TIME: Loneliness