wise words for those with friends in need

"Help us to be present for those who are hurting, even when we feel helpless."

"May I be like Simon of Cyrene, walking beside those in need, sharing their burdens, and bringing them strength."

Two passages from today's mass. Simon was dragooned into helping Jesus carry the cross upon which he was crucified. The sermon asks us to be that support for others and to identify the "Simons" in our life. 

The initial passage is helpful too guide me in supporting my daughter who entered a difficult period in her life some weeks ago. As a caring parent I struggled to find a way.to remove her pain, the passage suggests that being present and supportive is sufficient. Amen. 

This passage probably helps to reset my family's tendency to go all in to "help" others. We'll be actively stressing our big hypertensive hearts to cook, clean and clearup. Sure this gives the burdened person a rest, but also takes their agency away. It would be better to, as the passage urges, stand by the sufferer and passively support and accompany them. This was they move forward, or stay, we calmly stand by in support of their actions. The Helper is beside the Victim not ahead, supporting not leading, suggesting or encouraging, just peacefully assisting them in their actions. Should the Victim toss their cross down in anger, frustration or rage, the Helper's roll is not to carry the cross alone, but to be beside the Victim to hear them and be present.  Not all Bearers if Crosses complete their journeys, or "suceed", we Helpers need to be ok with that and accept that the cross was never our responsibility. We, if we choose, are present to help the Bearer in their roll, not to ensure they get to the hill top.

A message to Myself: its not my duty to ensure others succeed, it is enough to be present and support. Sixty four and I am still learning. 

I am not especially religious I do enjoy perusing the mass readings which I see as parables with underlying guidance for living contented.  

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