If you are like most people, you are likely to be experiencing stress given the current situation in our country and the world. There is much division. There are concerns about what is happening in society. Are we losing our country? Are we going to war? What about inflation and the economy? Are we going to lose our job? Are we going to have enough money to pay our bills. As the often quoted saying – “These are times that tries men’s souls” (not an exact quote but close). The question is do we have a set of beliefs that keeps us mentally and spiritually protected when we face life situations? This is where we need to assess where our “True North” is – the underlying beliefs that direct and sustain us during times of stress. From those underlying beliefs we can maintain hope and encouragement even during those times of stress. This a time where people of “Faith” have an opportunity to reach out to others who are anxious and concerned. It is also a time to reexamine our own Faith experience and have an opportunity to deepen an understanding of how our Faith can sustain us. My wife in her work with people as a Nurse tells people and also has reminded me - often pain is the impetus for growth. She is right. http://emapdrschulz.com