A thought about having a clear purpose that provides meaning in our struggles

Having a clear sense of purpose in life, and knowing that we're connected to something meaningful gives us strength. It allows us to persevere and find perspective in difficulty. It enables us to lead with kindness and love. But pain and unhappiness can sidetrack us. When we feel hurt or unhappy we can turn inward, forgetting our life’s purpose and meaning. We forget that other people matter. I know for some this is a difficult time. Some are challenged with new burdens. Let me encourage you that your new challenge, that burden has some new purpose, some new meaning in it, some new opportunity. For me there are three difficulties. The ambiguity of not knowing how much longer this will go on, the constant adjustments to changes that are required, and not being able to travel. This weekend I looked up at the mountains behind my house and it was such a beautiful day, and I wanted to be up there hiking on those trails. That hurt a little on the inside. There was a little grief at the loss that I wasn’t able to take advantage of while here. The purpose I have been able to devote myself to is twofold. 1. We are living history. A time people will be referring back to for generations so I certainly want to do my part to live up to this event and be able to account for how I spent the time. I want to be able to say that I sacrificed for the greater good. That I was able to put others first. 2. The fact that it is hard, gives me pride that I have already made it through 4-weeks and it really hasn’t been so bad. This time can be difficult, challenging even. It's an inconvenience, but inconvenience is something all military families know something about and we are all experiencing this stress together. It's hard for others too. I have to remember to be thankful, I have a steady job, steady pay, and that is a blessing for me. I have to remember to pass that on, how can I help others in need who are not as fortunate. Have you called to check on others less fortunate or in need? As a community, we can be optimistic, despite difficult circumstances because the connections we keep with one another strengthens us as a community. When a group of individuals believes in something higher than themselves, their work can be exponentially greater. So come on, we need you. I need you.