Thunder

     When we hear thunder, we know a storm is brewing and lightning can strike.  We take the warning and go to safe cover.  Babies instinctively fear loud noises, and our sense of hearing helps protect us.  The growl of an animal, a train whistle, a siren, all can warn us of danger.  Our sense of sight also warns us of danger as we see threatening animals, people, and vehicles headed our way.  All of our senses can alert us to potential hazards; however, how many warnings do we ignore?
     When our parents taught us about the dangers in life, we learned many lessons.  Most of the time we appreciated their advice; other times we may have ignored their wisdom and had to learn things the hard way.  When our doctors warn us to take better care of ourselves and, in some cases, advise us to take meds to improve our health, we should follow their advice.
     Some politicians are warning us about the dangers in our future and try to convince us that they are the solution to our problems.  Other politicians try to calm our fears and give us hope that we can solve our problems.
     When our experience and common sense give us clues about living the good life, hopefully we aren't tempted toward unsound, unhealthy, or unsafe decisions.  Our family and friends may see the dangers in some of our behaviors and ask us to make changes.  We need to take their concerns to heart.
     As you hear the rumble of thunder, take proper precautions.  Don't let lightning strike for you to pay attention.

Robin Hood

     King Richard of England was absent from the throne while fighting in the 3rd Crusade.  His brother John ruled is his absence.  The Sheriff of Nottingham was unscrupulous and demanded oppressive taxes from the poor.  Robin Hood was a yeoman, a commoner, neither a knight nor a peasant.  His family had a small landed estate.  Robin and his merry men lived in Sherwood Forest and would rob the rich to give to the poor.  Comparisons can be made between this folktale and our present politics.
     What would Republicans add to the tale?  King Richard was a Christian and was trying to share  his values with the world.  The Sheriff overtaxed the poor workers in order to sustain the ballooning government.  Robin wanted to reduce the power of the government so the hard-working class could sustain their way of life.
     What would Democrats add to the tale?  King Richard was interested in promoting religion but neglected his duties to all his countrymen.  The Sheriff was more concerned with protecting the wealthy and had no sympathy for the poor.  Robin believed the rich should share their wealth.
     We are thankful to be living in the US today instead of in Old England, but we have similar problems.  We hope that our elected officials can improve the lives of all our citizens through legal means.

Reality

     Everyone has their own reality based on what they think is true.  We can usually trust the information that comes in through our five senses which provide us with the most basic reality.  As we learn  about science and history, we expand what we believe is true.  We also form opinions based on these facts.  In addition, we may form opinions based on religion like the existence of God, the power of prayer, and creationism.  For Christians, the Bible is inspired by God and contains real historical facts.
     Everyone also has opinions based on logical common sense.  Many religious and non-religious people agree on certain value systems and patterns of behavior that promote the safety and continuation of a civilized society.  Some universal values have been with us for many centuries and exist in many countries and cultures.  We have all heard sayings that seem to have proven their real value.  Honesty is the best policy.  Treat others as you want to be treated.  Be a good example.  We believe that good values are the way to a satisfying life.  All these things contribute to our reality: our senses, science, history, religion, and common sense.
     Sometimes we want to believe in something that is not real. Wishful thinking and being in denial distort reality.  Some people intentionally distort or exaggerate what is real for their own benefit or to promote products, services, or political candidates.  Many TV programs label themselves as reality shows where the viewers are allowed to witness the daily lives of others or to see contrived competitions.
     What do you believe is true?  What is your reality?
   

Comfort

     Comfort is a basic goal at any age.  As we get older and experience illness, injury, surgery, rehab, and other medical treatments, we really welcome being free of pain and having the physical comfort of a healthy body.  When we experience stress and worry, we yearn to solve our problems and return to a more relaxed and comfortable life.  We also want to be financially comfortable and enjoy our retirement.  Our mental health is as important as our physical condition.
     After a hospital stay or a prolonged absence, we especially enjoy all the comforts of home: an easy chair, a relaxing couch, our own bed, plus warmth in the winter and AC in the summer.  Add to that comfortable clothes and comfort food, and life is good.
     At every age, we need to be comfortable in our own skin, to feel self-confident in our decisions and judgments, and to be less influenced by what others think.  We need to clear our conscience and forgive ourselves and others for mistakes. We can become comfortable with our appearance by not comparing ourselves with some artificial ideal, but by liking ourselves just the way we are.
     We all wish to have the comfort of companionship with family and friends who can help us through the rough spots and smooth our way to contentment.  Being able to share our lives with others adds to our comfort level.
      Being comfortable is more complicated than it seems.  We may want to broaden our comfort zone by learning and practicing new skills.  When we can ease the pain and stress of life,  we can find comfort within ourselves and with others.