What is our purpose for being alive?

I realize this a very deep philosophical question and everyone has his or her own private opinion. Mine, however, probably overlaps with most folks.

I believe first of all, we must “do no harm”. We should neither verbally nor physically abuse and living creature. All of us deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. I feel we should greet everyone we meet or pass by with a smile. Our manner should be welcoming. Now, I realize, that some people have no respect for anyone and these folks need to be watched carefully – but that does not mean they can be abused physically. I have mixed emotions about some criminals and some crimes are so heinous that the perpetrators need to be dealt with firmly and never be allowed to walk out freely into society. This would eliminate the opportunity for them to do the same thing to someone else. Child sexual predators and abusers along with rapists are two such criminals that have lost my ability to think of them with respect. Those who prey on the elderly and who commit premeditated murder are another couple of categories of criminals who should not ever be allowed back in society.

Regarding greeting others with a smile and an open face, I feel that many arguments between people could be avoided if everyone followed that precept. I used to tell my staff at the library to “put steak in your voice”. That is a dog training term and works well with many animals in addition to dogs and people. By this, I mean, speak softly and warmly, always be open to listen to someone else’s story. After all, they would not be telling it if it was not important to them. Librarians are the bartenders for those who do not drink. We hear many stories of divorce, children on drugs, a sick spouse, being evicted from their apartment or losing their job. When someone would come into the library already angry and in a bad mood, they could frequently be diverted by a smile and a “how can I help you?”. It is always easier to avoid a fight than to try to win one. Compromising with others also goes a long way toward soothing tempers.

Serving others is also part of my belief system. Providing love and support to those in need is a high priority. Those caregivers on the Shy-Drager support site for MSA sufferers and caregivers know what I am speaking of. So many have selflessly taken care of sick loved ones, and sometimes sick relatives they did not get along with or care about but they still provide the loving care that is needed. These caregivers KNOW what LIVING is. Living is not only having fun, laughing, and seeing friends, it is also about caring for others while maintaining a sense of humor and treating the sick with respect and dignity. These caregivers deserve our profound thanks for the work they do. I believe it is harder to be a caregiver than it is to be a patient. Bless them all for their dedication to serve.