No Problems

   
     Just issues and challenges, or so they say.  Only in math, do we use the p word.  Or you might remember in the movie Apollo 13: "Houston, we have a problem" with not enough oxygen or electricity to complete the mission.  Now, that's a problem!
     Euphemisms are words that help soften a term that might be considered unpleasant to hear.  We are familiar with "passed away" instead of "died."  Perhaps using these softer words can change our emotions from a somewhat negative connotation to a more positive reaction.  An issue seems like a fact to consider and a challenge seems to propel us toward an outcome.
     When we get an unexpected negative reaction from someone, we often ask, "What's your problem?"   A softer word does not convey our emotion.  We are showing disapproval and want an explanation.
     Even though we are encouraged not to use the word, we know when we have a problem.  We have to recognize the seriousness, handle the emotional reaction, and plan a solution if there is one.  Some problems are not just issues and have no solution.  No matter how badly we want to accept the challenge, our solution may be just to adapt.  We can change our perspective, but the problem remains.
     You are in the minority if you have no problems.  
 
       

Essentials

 
     Everyone has limited time, energy, and money; therefore, what is essential must be determined.  Just envision those without the necessities and realize what is vital for existence: sustenance, basic clothing, and shelter.  Education, health care, and loving contact are also necessary for development.  Living in peace and safety without fear of violence is another requirement for survival.  Meeting these needs should bring a certain amount of contentment.
     When our own desires or the wants of our children exceed what is absolutely necessary,  contentment is difficult to reach, let alone happiness.  The amount of time, energy, and money spent on having more than we need lessens our ability to appreciate the basics of life.  Our self-centered pursuit of non essentials also decreases our ability to focus on the less fortunate.
     The continued question "What do you want?" is usually answered by things that go beyond our needs. Many people don't appreciate what they have and just want more and more.  Those really in need often find true happiness with a full stomach, warm clothing, and a safe place to live.  Of course, they want to be healthy and have the opportunity to learn and love.
      Many people around the world plus those in our own country and neighborhoods are in need of the essentials.  If you have what you need, help those who don't.  As you enjoy all the extras in life, keep in mind what others need and not just at the popular times of Thanksgiving and Christmas.
   

Above and Beyond

   
     Doing more than is required or expected especially to benefit others is sometimes recognized and rewarded, but other times is taken for granted or not even noticed.  Those in dangerous occupations, especially those wearing a uniform and carrying a gun, often receive thanks, praise, medals, and life-long perks.  We feel gratitude to them who risk life and limb in our stead to make us feel safe.
     The list of duties in the military is very clear, handed down from the tradition of each branch of service.  Police duties are defined by law.  Civilians, however, receive their list of duties from various sources.  Down through history, males in power decided who was to do what.  Some people believe our duties come from God, the Father and God, the Son as written in scriptures.  Our families often train us to follow a traditional list of duties.  We need to be aware of who designed our duty list.
     We need to mature and realize that we should design our own sense of duty, what we should and shouldn't do.  Some of our actions will be noticed; some will not.  We need to feel satisfaction about fulfilling our duties and also appreciate what others do to sustain and improve our lives.  Not to minimize the sacrifices of those in uniform, but those who work in peaceful pursuits deserve a gold star for going above and beyond.