bpcyclist, I am so happy that you have a comfort in life now. I know that so very many people have that through their faith. And I don't limit that to just a faith in a God/religion, but other types such as that most all people are inherently good, even if they sometimes seem to do wrong things that inadvertently hurt themselves or others.

I think we're living in a time that truly tests faith. Such tests are doozies sometimes. I have had mine greatly tested, as well. Things I see sadden and anger me, intensely. But as bad as they may seem, that usually do yield some level of good, even if not fully recognized or must be waited for. They teach in so many ways, expose things that were previously hidden or unrecognized, perhaps make us more compassionate, and more. I watched an interview between two well-known men a few days back where this very point was emphasized. It was brought up in the context of grief and loss, which all experience.

Patience in my faith has been crucial. I've had to develop it throughout my life, though. It was worth the wait and I know it is something I will have to continue to practice many more times in the future. Patience, faith, forgiveness (also for oneself), hope, kindness, open arms and minds, transformation, and more are indeed crucial. We must never totally give up on life or ourselves. We may stumble or even crash, but must get up again. Not fall into a deep hole and be resigned to never getting out, or at least looking upwards towards light.