We probably know may people close to us going through personal disputes, problems and challenges. Even as we empathise, we often take the view that we are better off not getting involved and letting it be someone else’s problem. For sure we must not interfere where we are not needed, but we need to definitely ask ourselves whether we are taking the easier and more comfortable path of not getting involved when we could well have a role to play.

When we deeply think about the situations many who are close to us are in, we will realise that there may well be a case to consider getting involved.

When people are in a dispute, they often need a third person to help resolve a deadlock and work towards a win-win solution. We could well be that mediator.

When people around us are going through emotional challenges, they need someone they trust with whom they can share their problems and unburden themselves. We could well be that confidant available to hear them without judging.

When someone is going through a difficult phase, whether it be health, financial, or family, they may just need the moral support of knowing that they are not alone. Even though we may not be able to directly attend to their specific problem, we could well be that person who walks alongside them, giving them fellowship in their hour of need.

It is always easy to stay away. But we must consider this – if we are staying away when we can play a meaningful role, then we are staying away from an opportunity of not only easing someone else’s pain, but depriving ourselves of an opportunity of giving greater meaning and purpose to our life.

For sure it will mean we ourselves will go through our share of effort and carry a burden. But the essence of life is not being cocooned in our comfort zone, it is in willing and daring to offer ourselves and getting involved.

(Picture-Fruit tree in our garden)