Who Represents the Family?

Why does anyone have to "carry on"? Why doesn't a person quit when those closest to him don't seem to recognize any value in his efforts or any true understanding of his motives? After all, the search for some meaning in this confusing world is a fairly noble quest, isn't it. Or, is it? Would those who know us best be more satisfied to find more rewarding behavior within our small, tight circle of family than to recognize its importance in a large scheme of existence? Most would answer that family and close friends should occupy the vast majority of our time, yet what about those who find hope and meaning beyond a small, related group?

From successful experiences and natural inclinations, some people feel a desire to contribute beyond the bounds of close association. Despite resistance and repeated pleas to change and worry about matters at hand, their world is not bound by blood but by restless hearts. As they encounter these gypsy spirits at jobs or at leisure, they feel the need to engage.

Sometimes, the engagement is conversational; other times it is bent toward determined understanding; and yet other times it involves risking a thoughtful personal experience. The universal ingredient is always the sharing of souls. And, to many who live within a tight circle, a simplicity of connection with strangers is beyond simplistic and native understanding, but, the feeling of shared communication for others is almost like a sixth sense.

For those sharing, reaping some enjoyment of personal benefit from such fateful moments is taboo. In fact, most of the times a person extends his soul beyond his tight circle, he has no conscious memory of what, exactly, has transpired.

But, people who connect do recognize and file the experience in their long-term memories. If not at the moment of conception, some people become aware some time later of a unique understanding in their own perceptions of living. Statements that begin with phrases such as "It meant so much at the time" or "I didn't understand that at the time" or "I wish I would have" or simply "I know now" are remarkable memories years after the encounters.

It is very difficult to realize life is comprised of many experiences that have occurred outside the norm. Sadness creeps into close relationships that suffered during time-consuming journeys outside close family. Yet, time being the measured reality of the past, no longing for change can change its passing. And, to be quite honest, who is truly sure where the majority of the hours of our efforts must definitely reside? It is less a matter of caring for people than a matter of delegating the gifts one is given.

So, in closing, my point is this -- a lifetime of public service is a valid, decent measure equal to a lifetime of being a perfect, righteous relative. In the end, who is to say what benefits more? A few saints walk among us, but most of us naturally flow to our stream of least resistance and most good. I only hope people can recognize their talents, exhibit them successfully, and be buoyed by others with offerings that complement ours. Many are quick to judge abilities in all areas of life. And, some live a life completely within their family reference.