No One Is An Island

 I recently listened to Clinical Psychologist and Professor, Jordan Peterson answer a question on why someone contemplating suicide should not end their life. His response was well-constructed and thought out; but the heart of his message that stuck with me was to think about all the people in your life who you interact with. Your life is not just your own. This is true for many other things besides suicide: addictions, arguments, greed, etc... So often, we focus inward too much; excluding everyone around us. The truth is we are a significant link in many other's lives. Perhaps more than we'll ever truly know. 

We can be certain that we'll face hard times at different points of our lives. In these times, it's especially crucial to understand that we are not alone in our struggles. Friends, family or even complete strangers have gone through similar circumstances, all with valuable insights and resources to offer. Bill Withers' classic "Lean On Me" really sums up this essential fact. "We all need someone to lean on."

Think on the connections in your life and how you interact with them. Think of what value you bring to their lives. In our trials, we especially need to call upon the goodwill that upholds any trustworthy relationship. We are never truly alone; despite how technology and our modern world may make us feel. No one is an island. Make the effort to cross the waters of isolation and enter a supportive community of love.