Perspective

Theater artists and moms of young children have something in common -- both groups tend to have lots of insecure members. Both have to be exquisitely sensitive to do their jobs well, and most have an intense drive to do not only their best, but to seek perfection. What this often translates to is a preoccupation with details; "little" things like individual performances or whether your kid reads at age 3 or 5 or 10.

There is a lot of ugliness inherent to our world, a great deal of which we have to block out of our minds and hearts (when we're not directly experiencing it, and sometimes even when we are) if we are to stay sane. I do think, though, that it's important to consider this ugliness when we get caught up in the stresses of living our normal lives. For example, I think it's dreadfully important to eat well -- in fact, many of today's problems stem from improper nutrition and ingestion of icky chemicals that upset our behaviour in hideous ways. However, I'm not going to stress over the occasional chicken nugget or cup of soda or bowl of mac n cheese. Seriously, as bad as these foods are, going without food is worse. Always.

When I write rather neurotically about this theater job or that one, and I complain somewhat bitterly about lack of time or skills or the importance of this thing or that one, it's important that you know that I do understand where these matters lie in the hierarchy of the world. I feel unbelievably fortunate and blessed to have these things to worry about. I don't think that we should not do these things because others, for whatever reason, are unable -- but I do think that we should recognize our blessings, and whenever possible, work towards a world in which everyone can worry about these non-life and spirit threatening issues.

Today, I am particularly struck by the sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make to protect us. Whatever your stand politically, and I am a strong advocate of peace whenever possible, these people face obstacles and situations that would kill most of us, spiritually, mentally and physically. From leaving small children and husbands and wives to be stationed in ravaged countries with little resources, to being left behind without support for months at a time, to fighting social, political and physical battles with few resources at their disposal, to never knowing what the next assignment will be, these people are brave and resilient. So, when you are doing something that you consider to be really important, take a moment and send a wave of energy and hope, or a small prayer, up for these men and women and all of the citizens of the countries in which they are stationed. Whatever their reasons for being there, the more positive energy going their way, the better.

Deep thoughts for today. "Love one another as I have loved you." More difficult words have never been uttered.