The Easy Chair

Musings by J.P. Starrs

"Pausing to Lift."

Tomorrow, it will be exactly one year since we last visited in the paragraphs of The Easy Chair.

I had not intended to resume specifically for the anniversary; I simply thought tonight that it’s time to get back to my friends.  I am sorry that I have been away.

As I read my last entry from a year ago, it was interesting to note that it was about a tragedy in a family and wishing them well in recovery.  I did not foresee that I would succumb that week to my own illness that would render me without the wherewithal to continue chatting with you, (among other things.) Suffice it to say, it has been a year of learning and physical struggle, but things are closing in on normal again.

One of The Easy Chair readers, Herman, mentioned to me how much he missed the column each week, as he had really been enjoying it.  I appreciated that so much as he lifted me greatly with his inquiry as to my status.

I have reflected many times as to the simplicity of his message.  It was just a friendly lift from someone genuinely interested in my well-being.  I knew that he cared about me and my family and how life was treating us.  That five minute conversation helped lift me over and over again in the dark months ahead.

There are things for all of us that cause us to struggle.  I believe the purpose of life is to find joy in the journey, despite the struggles we all face.  Sometimes, a plane crash or some other catastrophe causes some sort of public struggle.  Mostly though, people struggle in silence, unnoticed by even those very close to them.

Sometimes we withdraw from those around us.  There are many reasons: hurt, fear, distance, even time.  But the true Samaritans are those who reach out, make an effort and just check in to say, “Hey, someone is thinking about you today.”

I hope that if I have learned anything in my year away from The Easy Chair, it would be that I can more easily recognize those struggling in silence and to have the courage to tell and show them that they are important to me.

Thanks again, Herman.  Here’s to the next year of our visits.

Here’s hoping you enjoy it still!

That’s the view from The Easy Chair.

J.P. Starrs

18 September 2009

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John Starrs is a husband and dad.

Sometimes he is also a documentary filmmaker, media mogul, and warrior poet.
www.starrman.com
www.WatchmenInstitute.org
www.BumpLimited.com

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Category: The Easy Chair, Watchmen Files | 2 Comments