Explanations

     We all want explanations, to know the reasons, the how and why of life.  Comfort comes when we feel we have the answers to our questions.
     Some believe their religion holds the explanations, that everything is going according to a master plan.  Even if they don't understand now, they believe the reasons will be revealed later or in the afterlife.
     Without this type of faith, others accept the fact that some things have no explanation and some things will remain in the realm of the unknown.  Scientists realize they don't have the information to answer all the questions, but with research, they hope to add to their body of knowledge.  Maybe someday, they can discover the how and why to their questions.
     Often we have to decide if another person has the right explanations.  For example, which politician do we trust to have the right explanation of the past and the correct answers of what to do in the future.   
     We may have to become comfortable with the unexplained.  We can't always have a ready answer no matter how much we study scriptures or delve into scientific research.  We can still form opinions which may or may not be correct.  Others may have different opinions which may be right or wrong.  Sometimes we just have to admit that we don't know.
    

That Place

     When we feel stressed, confused, or down, we can take a walk, visit a favorite place, smell the sweetness of nature, listen to music, take a bath, taste comfort food or drink, or enjoy a companion, pet, or hobby.  Many avenues can take us to that place to escape temporarily and take a break.
     We can also relax alone and travel to a place in our mind to help us go from stress to calm, from confusion to inspiration, from pessimism to optimism.  Some use prayer; others use meditation.
     All of us need to take the time to go to those physical and mental places to get away from it all.  After our temporary escape, we may be able to return to the challenges of life with a refreshed outlook.  Whenever life seems to be wearing you down, go to that special place.

How To Treat A Woman

     Treat a woman like a complete human being with all the rights and privileges of a man.  Any person, candidate, political party, religion, or country who reduces the rights of the female does not understand the necessity of equal rights.
     Any country who refuses to educate the female, gives her second-class citizenship, and relegates her to a subservient role in the family is abusing its power and limiting its potential.
     Any religion that only allows men to be priests or pastors, that continually views God in a masculine image, and believes the husband should be the head of the family and the wife a helpmate, is perpetuating outdated mores.
     Any political party or candidate that wants to take away the female's right to control her own body does not respect her judgment capabilities.
     Males and females should have the same equal rights, equal educational opportunities, and equal status in the family and society.

What's your source?

     We can refer to many sources for information.  Most people use scientific evidence, historical info, witnesses, and common sense.  Followers of most religions also have their spiritual books which they believe is the word of God.  Christians believe the Bible contains the history of creation through the life and times of Christ.  They also believe the Bible is a guide to morality.  Some believe every word is inspired, complete and without error. They also put faith into their own church's interpretation.  Some churches have a more literal interpretation; others see certain passages as a simplified way to explain complicated issues to a people without our scientific background and modern sensibilities.  Misinterpretation can also cause disagreements.
     Just as we trace a river back to it's source, we can also trace our lives back to day one, our human race back to it's origin, and the universe back to creation.  Our source may be spiritual or scientific or a combination of both.
     Many people, however, while claiming their source is accurate, believe those who disagree are inaccurate or wrong.  A democratic society by all people and for all people must not honor one religion over another.  We allow our citizens to hold a variety of opinions from a variety of sources.

Fooled

     No one wants to be fooled, to be influenced by tricks, deceptions, exaggerations, or lies.  We want to have faith that our intelligence and good judgment can help us detect such things.  Political campaigns, however, have mastered the art and science of using methods that appeal more to our emotions, fears, and preconceived opinions.  Speeches, debates, and advertising should help us to make good decisions, but instead they use every trick in the book to get our vote.
     Many problems cannot be solved by government.  Candidates often offer a false hope that they know how to give us the future we want.  They may have possible solutions to some problems, but other situations are beyond the function of government.  Stay alert, keep an open mind, evaluate what you see and hear, and don't let them fool you. 

Default Setting

     A default setting on a computer is preset, installed at the factory, and used automatically unless the user chooses to alter the option.  You can enter your own setting or use the default.
     People also have default settings.  Parents begin to instill a set of beliefs and values into their child at an early age which is a natural part of good parenting.  They teach their child what they believe is true, but what they believe may be opinion and not fact.  Difficulties may occur when the child grows into a teenager and young adult and is exposed to other options.
     Many people never alter their basic beliefs.  Their default setting remains intact.  Others who investigate other options may or may not choose to change.  Parents, however, should not be surprised when their older child is able to distinguish between fact and opinion.  Don't put a guilt trip on them when they begin to form opinions which are different from yours.  As long as they are not into dangerous behaviors, let them develop into an adult who may or may not keep their default setting. 
    
    

Silver Lining?

     Every cloud has a silver lining, not.  Sometimes a cloud lingers and blocks the sunshine for a long time.  When that cloud finally leaves, the sunshine returns, but that doesn't erase the fact that that cloud had no redeeming feature, no lesson to teach, no pretty.  We often hear that it could have been worse, but that isn't the point.  Author Harold Kushner explains how bad things happen to good people.  No rhyme or reason.  Not always fair.
     Don't feel that everything has a purpose or is part of some master plan.  Don't wonder why your guardian angel was off guard.  Some situations have no happily ever after, and we just have to cope.  It may never be the same. Looking for a silver lining isn't realistic in many cases.  As a famous lyric says: Pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and start all over again.

Puzzle

     Watch a toddler learning to put together a simple puzzle.  With practice, the process gets easier.  As the child grows older and the brain gets more complex, the puzzles can become more challenging.  Adults also get a challenge and pleasure from fitting the puzzle pieces into a big picture.
     We are also puzzle pieces, each with a unique contour and design.  Some children and adults have a harder time than others fitting into their peer group.  Some may struggle finding their place.
     The human puzzle piece has the advantage of being able to modify its contour and design.  Through education and practice, the individual can create a better fit into society.  We may be just one piece, but our contribution will give us satisfaction and help solve the big puzzle.   
    

Inspiration

     Inspiration can cause a thought or feeling to motivate us toward action.  Sources of inspiration may include nature or art, hearing or reading meaningful words, or witnessing people living admirable lives.  Some people feel inspiration from God and religion.  Some people with curious and creative minds observe the world around them and come up with new ideas and inventions.
     Inspiration is also inhalation, the movement of air into the lungs.  Some people learn to focus on breathing by remaining still and allowing the mind to clear.  This is a type of meditation which can lead to enlightenment, with or without religious connotations.
     Oxygen, thoughts, and feelings are essential for survival.  They enable us to take action toward improving our lives and the lives of others.  Get inspired.  Be an inspiration.
    

Healing

     Stitch and staple the skin.  Ice and wrap the sprain.  Align and cast the bone.  Remove the appendix, the cataracts, the tumors.  Replace the knee, hip, and even the organs.  Our marvelous bodies begin to heal.
     Putting your life back together after troubled times, easing stress and strain, and mending a broken heart show how our minds can begin to heal.  Replacing negativity with hope and erasing grudges with forgiveness can lead to better mental health.
     We all are in various stages of physical and mental health.  As we improve our own situations, we will also benefit from helping others toward healing.