Life has a way of keeping one off balance. Although life is not always fair, there always seems to be something happening to upset the quiet peace we all seek: the IRS comes calling, someone becomes ill or dies, family members won’t speak to one other for inexplicable reasons, and allow through either sufferance or habit to let it continue. Someone looses their job, or worse, war breaks out and threatens family, neighbors, and friends. If we wish to survive the punches life throws our way and remain sane, we need to think on our feet and adapt.

     Recently the news has been filled with horrid stories of war, children murdered in their schools, and extreme weather events. These events can have a profound effect on our psyche, but we must choose to react in positively. We need to comfort and reassure our children to let them know the world is not out to get them. The majority of people in the world are caring and gentle. We are in the season of kindness and giving, a time for sharing with family and friends. Yet there are many among us facing economic hardships and loneliness. Sadly, these situations may cause some people to behave unexpectedly.

     In How Nicholas became Santa Clause, Nicholas dealt with the murders of parents, friends, and neighbors with prayer and counsel from others. We have used these coping mechanisms throughout our marriage. We have survived children born prematurely, miscarriages, deaths of parents and siblings, familial estrangement and financial difficulty. With belief and positive thinking you will not only survive, but also excel.