I know, we're not supposed to compare our lives to others. We're not supposed to covet. But what about the other way around? Is it horrible to see someone else's life and think, "Wow, at least I don't have to deal with that!"
My friend Traci says that if we all threw our problems into a pile and then chose which ones we'd prefer from that pile, we'd choose the ones we originally had. I think that's fairly true. As strange as it may sound, looking at that big pile of aggregate problems can be encouraging. We see that others are traveling troubled roads too, it helps us feel less alone and we can take courage in seeing others rise up to meet their challenges. Then there is the 'it could be worse' factor.
Living in the U.S. I think it is vital that we seek to become aware of the needs of the entire world, to keep from become insular. It is important for us to think about how all of God's children around the world are living so that we can see that our lifestyle is lavish in comparison. This leads us to share more. The recent events in Haiti are a perfect example. That country is perpetually plagued with major problems, but only now as all eyes are on them after the earthquake, is aid rushing in (not that they weren't getting any before, just not enough). I do not think that the earthquake was a good thing, but maybe Haiti finally getting the world's attention and compassion is a blessing that comes from it.
How we choose to share our lives and goods is different for every person. That's where we work with God. We ask for his guidance, knowing that he knows us, our talents, and our breaking point better than we know it ourselves. Once we feel God has directed us in a certain direction, we jump in and help. Even if we don't exactly know how it will turn out or how we'll deal with the implications (emotional, spiritual, monetary, etc.). This is one aspect of the faith we should have in God.
Here are a few things that put my problems and blessings in perspective:
NieNie is recovering from surgery, again.
Dandelion Mama is giving up her dream home, after her husband chooses addiction over his family.
This young father and musician recently had a heart transplant.
A family is apart when the Haitian earthquake happened, the mom at church, the father at work. The three children were trapped in their collapsed home. See the happy ending.
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