Life is turmoil, this is the external. When my spirit is peaceful, I’m open to whatever comes, fair or foul. Difficulties require work, so when the opportunity for joy presents itself, I gratefully accept these chances. Joy inspires hope which is necessary to survive, thrive & keep working. Experiencing joy makes you stronger.

Kevin, as usual, you are both concise and correct.

Samuel, I agree with you. Thanks for sharing. All of us experience pain in this world, it’s part of the deal. Suffering is a different matter. To allow one’s pain to dominate life is a life of suffering, I don’t believe that is humanity’s reason for existance. Winston Churchill said: “I believe in being an optimist. There isn’t much point in being anything else.”