I love the simple and yet complex message in this little plaque.  It inspires me to think about my many blessings even in the midst of sadness.  I am not the only person who has lost loved ones.  I am not the only one who is lonely. I am not the only one whistling in the dark at times.  I am just one person who can try to brighten my day by helping others. When I was in graduate school learning about different therapeutic approaches, I recall our professor stating that there will always be people hurting.  It is so true in so many ways from children to seniors.  So, there is always something I can do or say to be of help in a quiet, non-obtrusive way if that is the right thing for that person.  Sometimes just sitting with a person is all that can be done.  I recall sitting with a young father whose toddler was dying.  There was nothing I could say but I could stay with him and that is what I did.

So even in the midst of a world where things go horribly wrong and no safe harbor appears on the horizon,  I must remain thankful and optimistic. Thankful for my brains and fortitude. Thankful for those around me who care about others and living a decent life. Thankful that I can rise everyday and live in freedom and relative safety in an imperfect world.