This life is hard. People suffer....for a number of reasons and in a number of ways. We're all broken, we're all vulnerable, we all hurt at some time..and often much of the time.

Which is why it is so crucial to be kind. To love. To care. To reach out to others....for everyone you meet, everyone you've ever met...had a story, has sorrow, has pain, has joys and has lessons to impart. Listen, care, learn.

But don't pick up the unnecessary baggage.  You don't need to carry someone else's guilt and issues unless you want to. You don't have to carry around someone else's judgment of you. Put that crap down.  How can you heal...and how can you help others, if you're so immersed in the mire that you can't escape?

You want to help others? Love them.  Pray for them. Help as you can. Be there as a friend.  You want to change the world?  Love people.

But do so by living not only a life of love, but of purpose and joy. Don't swallow the poison of "you should have, could have, would haves".....walk away from that garbage. God gives us a purpose of love and outreach, embrace that, it is far more freeing and uplifting.

-Beth Haynes Butler​