What Really Matters

That which does not kill us makes us stronger.

~Friedrich Nietzsche

This Daily Pearl is dedicated to those effected by Hurricane Sandy & to my fellow New Yorkers who lost so much and are still trying just to survive...

What Really Matters
If nothing else, this past week should have taught us all a lesson, no matter where we live.  The lesson is what truly matters most in this life; food, shelter, warmth, your health and having amazing people around you (be it family or friends).  Everything else is a bonus, even having a full tank of gas.

The even bigger lesson if you will, is having one of those items and opening up your heart and your home to provide any of those things (or all) to someone in need.  It might be an inconvenience for you but for them, it could be everything when all of the sudden they have nothing.  

And if you do not live close, be sensitive to those that do and are struggling, especially if you are directly connected to them (probably through Facebook).  Give them words of encouragement, not pictures of you going out drinking and dancing.  Show them that you might not physically be there but your heart is.

Be Selfless and not selfish.  Yes during these difficult times people can get on your nerves quicker (maybe even family) than usually.  But by complaining about them instead of taking a deep breath in and realizing that you are one of the lucky ones since they are still here and with you.  They did not get washed away in your arms when the tide came in like some did.  

Be courageous and strong for this too shall pass but let it make you a better person, not a bitter one.  Take care of yourself and take care of each other.  For the true life lesson in this catastrophe, and all that have occurred, is love.  How much love can you give and how much are you willing to receive?  Hopefully the answer you find is that your love is endless in either direction.