TalkFrank's Message for the New Year

Words and photo by F LoBuono

This is the time of year when people experience a great deal of emotion. For most of us it is joyful. But, for some, it can be downright painful. Where many of us have the pleasure and warmth of family and friends, others feel the pang of loneliness and abandonment. And, that can be devastating.

What can we do or say to someone who is suffering?

Well, first, we can be present. Let someone who is hurting know that you are THERE for them. They are not really alone. Sometimes, a simple phone call with a kind word is enough. And, that ain't so hard to do now, is it? Also, if you can, plan to visit someone you know who might be alone and hurting. It really takes such little effort. And, it can save a life.

Often, because of their situations, people can be overcome simply by looking for the answers to their problems.  They ask, why am I alone or why is this bad thing happened to me and why isn't life easier, etc.?

Well, I may not have the answers but I can offer this: sometimes, it is not necessary to know ALL of them anyway. In fact, it is impossible to. We must learn to accept what we cannot even understand, much less CHANGE. It always reminds of the title of a popular Broadway show from the late 70's called Your Arms to Short to Box with God. The musical took the title from a 1927 sermon, "The Prodigal Son", by James Weldon Johnson.

Now, anyone who knows me also knows that I am not a formally religious person - it's just too restrictive for me. Still, I do believe that there is a higher consciousness that drives the Universe in some way. The issue is that consciousness is SO MUCH higher than our own we can never even hope to fully understand it (Buddhists believe that Enlightenment is reached if, and when, we do - a discussion for another post). Hence, the title. Sometimes, we must just accept what is given us without reservation or question. It just IS. When we learn to accept what we cannot change, our lives will improve and we can move forward in peace and harmony.

And, that is a good thing.

So, I hope that you are not suffering my friends and that the New Year brings you health, happiness, and, above all else, PEACE.