Columnist Bob Bridge
Relatively speaking, I’m an old man. There are pros and cons to such a distinction.
For example, I’m definitely not as agile as I once was. That’s a bummer. And, like many my age, I’ve lost both my parents.
I miss them at times such as these; however, I am spared the concern over their well-being. I rest peacefully knowing they are safe in a more beautiful realm.
It’s fair to assume these would not be good days on Earth for my mother. Ruthie was a world-class worrier. Stress was her most enduring enemy.
I swear, if a demonic dragon were to penetrate our inner sanctum, she would trouble herself with how the dragon gained entrance into our abode rather than determining how to expediently expel the intruder.
Sometimes it’s hard to exude a positive perspective. But, worry accomplishes nothing.
Remain calm. Address the primary challenge before you.
Many members of my extended family remain. I am blessed with a sister and brother-in-law; three nieces; seven grand-nieces and grand-nephews; a few aunts and uncles; and several cousins. I also have fostered friendships with people from coast to coast.
Do I worry?
With each passing day I realize my family’s immediate welfare is out of my control. That does not mean I love them any less, just that I can spend my remaining days accomplishing more constructive things.
Worrying and casting aspersions never ranked highly on my to-do list. Others are far more qualified, more proficient at those dubious, pitiable pastimes.
Regarding aspersions, during the past few weeks our contemporary social media has been swamped with expressions of doom and despair. The blame game, mean and dispiriting, is at its zenith.
Some are likely to drown in their bitterness before an enigmatic adversary overcomes them. With all due respect, this is a time for leaders, not fault-finding pseudo intellectuals spewing bile.
According to Ecclesiastes: “To every thing there is a season, a time for every purpose under the sun.” Also: “A time to love, and a time to hate.”
This is not the time for hatred.
Silence those tart tongues.
And, simply love your neighbors.
James explained, “No human can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it, we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God.”
Show kindness with words. Be quick to listen, and slow to speak.
Resist temptation to fuel the fury.
Try a little tenderness. Try to be a better human.
Bob Bridge welcomes comments at 812-276-9646 or bbbbbridge@gmail.com.
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