I was ashamed because I recently became (silently) frustrated at all the issues to deal with when we are in service to other people. I felt  bogged down by the weight of their sicknesses, their unhappiness, their sadness, and mostly their fears. Often I turn to scripture  because I am at a loss for words, answers.  

I spoke with my husband Jim about this, and as usual he listened quietly, told me things I needed to hear. The greatest part of his message is about privilege. Some of us are apparently easy to talk with, non judgemental, understanding - we actually listen.

I want to say siimply that even when we hear confidences we might rather not hear, when we are reached for at a difficult time, even when we see poor health and must bring inner strength, even when we know that being a presence is all we can do for a person, being trusted in these circumstances is a huge privilege.

If others trust you enough to share with you some of the most difficult moments of their lives, you have been chosen. Even when it feels heavy, you are in the place you were meant to be, in service to those who need to lean, or to be heard, sometimes for the last time. That is a huge privilege.