Have you ever seen anything that makes you feel like an ass for complaining?

[ChoralScholar]

I've been pretty bummed lately - I've lived here in Harrison for nearly two years, and still don't know anyone. It's at least a 1.5 hour drive to the nearest friend or family member. For those of you who don't know where Harrison is, it is in a very isolated part of NW Arkansas.

Anyway, I've been feeling lonely and bummed out, and wanting to move away.

I read an article in the paper yesterday about a young family who relocated here from Bosnia, and the article tells how much they miss THEIR family and friends. What really got me, though, is the fact that they were grateful to live in this community, and thankful for their jobs, etc.

I really feel like an ass for complaining.

Perspective adjusted.

I feel better.

Merry Christmas, DU!

[clyrc]

1. Almost daily

I don't live in a third world country, but close enough that most of the other residents of the country are from one. They are happy to get very low paying jobs with bad conditions, and it makes me feel bad for the relative ease I was born into. On the other had, I live in one of the richest places in the world, and the difference between my life and the lives of some of the peiople who live here is huge. Still, I have my family and many things I always wanted and I know I am so lucky.

Merry Christmas from me, too.

[leftofthedial]

2. constantly

I've had a pretty hellacious couple of years by most people's standards

but in that time, I've had one close friend whose son committed suicide and another friend who died after a fierce, painful, costly struggle with cancer. Their pain has been part of my rough stretch, but by comparison I have it pretty good.