John from Cincinnati

As the world around us changes, sometimes in ways that are troubling, unclear, confusing or even mysterious, people often respond by getting in touch with their deep beliefs.

Another normal human reaction is to try to avoid or escape from uncomfortable, unfamiliar and painful feelings and perceptions.

These two natural reactions, touching base with our core values and dealing with discomfort or pain, can work together to help us in our daily lives and in our understanding about what it means to be citizens and human beings.

We often hear news of sad and tragic circumstances and events. We learn of things that don’t seem fair, that don’t seem right and are upsetting. Innocent people get hurt or killed. Suffering occurs when it is not necessary.

In the news now, of course, we learn about the deaths of and severe injuries to our troops as well as innocent Iraqi and Afghan civilians.

Decent and honorable Americans often feel pain, sadness and anger about these situations.

To cope with these unpleasant feelings, we might try to look deep inside ourselves to find reasons and justification for this suffering.

In the case of military activities overseas, we might sometimes wonder if valid fundamental motivations justify the death and destruction involved?

Are these efforts based on spreading liberty and human decency?

Are we doing God’s work? Is God on our side?