Since the escalation of international terrorist activity a few 
years ago, many of us have had an opportunity to re-evaluate 
relationships and reflect upon our lives.  This can be a very 
difficult, and sometimes wrenching thing to do, but a necessary 
activity.  Making this sort of emotional assessment takes us 
back to our core values.  It helps us to appreciate the people 
who have touched our lives in positive ways.

Who you are is a reflection of the people you have been around, 
in conjunction with circumstances and environment.  These are 
usually family and friends – those who care about your physical, 
emotional, and spiritual welfare  Having a support system is an 
important aspect of developing a strong psyche. 

Have you ever wondered why a particular person has come into 
your life?  Perhaps there’s a life lesson for you to learn – 
compassion, patience, trust, dependability, etc., that was not 
possible to experience any other way  We frequently meet people 
who are destined to be pivotal to us through another contact.  
Being open to these opportunities can create an enriching 
endeavour.

Having relationships is all about making emotional commitments 
to people we care about.  Studies have shown that those who are 
truly happiest are those with strong connections to the people 
they love.  Even money becomes secondary in this situation.  
People who have been pronounced clinically dead and then revived 
have almost universally said that their most significant 
experience during the episode was understanding the importance 
of loving others.