Issue 3.13
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 these individuals 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 without really knowing them. Most individuals are wonderful examples of courage and fortitude when the unexpected challenges come. A few seem to be burdened or depressed by problems within their families. Many hide their grief. It’s shocking when someone you know tries to take his or her 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 while trying to live with optimism, trusting in a higher power and a purpose for life. Too many 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. It’s never too late to write your life story. For practical tips on how to get started, read Find Your Voice: Write Your Life Story available for $10 from lin@sunrivertoday.com or call 628-8522.