Few people consider sickness and suffering when picking a mate. They consider how the other person might look in the morning or what bad habits they might have. They consider what offspring they could produce or what extended family they might bring to the reunion. Yet few people ever consider what is a vital question — can I suffer with this person? It sounds like the beginning of another marriage joke, but its not. Its a real question and one which should be explored by every dating couple. Suffering is a part of life. And the older a person gets, the more we realize that suffering is not a rare occurrence, but is a common aspect of our lives. Sorrow comes in many forms, yet it is guaranteed to come. BEWARE: Not everyone suffers well. Some live in denial — unable to confront the deep realities of life. Some live in despair — unable to recognize the convergence of laughter and tears. Few have the grace to suffer well. Those who do suffer well are a well-spring of life and faith. Who do you want holding your hand when the test says cancer? On whose shoulder do you want to lean when the doctor says, Weve done all we can? With whom do you want to lay beside when you dont know where your child is or if they will ever come home? When your world turns upside down, in whose eyes do you want to look? Find someone who suffers well. I know it doesnt seem important when life is perfect. A beautiful smile is far more attractive than a quiet determination. A common interest is far more appealing than internal strength. Yet when life falls apart, you want someone you can run to, not someone you want to run from. You want someone who believes in you. You want someone who instills faith, not causes doubt. You want someone who hopes no matter the circumstances.
Posted on: Tue, 11 Nov 2014 13:01:04 +0000
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