Suffering for the Benefit of Others
Do you ever seem to have “rare” problems or situations frequently happening to you or in your realm of influence? Then, of course you’re going to be the one to stand up and do something about it, take a stand for the right thing, or even advocate for the cause and benefit of others. Do you ever seem to be the one that is constantly having to fight the battles or go through stuff that others seem to be immune to for some reason? Or does it seem like that you are always the one having to point something out?
You can’t help but ask, “Why don’t these things happen to other people? Why am I the only one to witness or notice something which needs attention? How is it that I always have to deal with these types of people? Why do these kinds of problems always happen to me or on my watch? Why am I always the one suffering?”
This seems to happen to me quite often. It just sometimes seems like I’m frequently the one holding my ground, solving the problem, fighting the fight, seeking better communication, pointing out wrongs, and/or advocating for others, and so on.
I find myself sarcastically saying things like…
“Of course it’s my kid…”
“Of course that rare instance happened in my class…”
“I’m not surprised that I’m the only one who didn’t get that or who noticed that…”
Is it just me?
These situations seem very rare and the fact I’m having to deal with “rare” situations quite often feels very isolating. I’m sure I’m not alone in dealing with this, but it feels that way at times (as I’m sure it does for you too). Even though these situations often result in the good and benefit of others, I can’t help but question why these kinds of things are always happening to me.
A good friend of mine frequently tells me it’s because God knows I can handle it. He knows I’m strong, and he knows that I’ll do something about it. I typically respond, “Well, why can’t he pick someone else!?” I even said the other day, “I’m just going to say that I’m not strong enough, and I can’t handle it.” To which she replied something like, “Yeah that’s the thing…you can’t fool God.”
Sometimes I would prefer that somebody else just address things or handle problems. Unfortunately for me it’s not in my nature to turn a blind eye. For some crazy reason, God built in me a problem solving, championing, crusader-like character trait. I will stand and fight for the right thing even when it’s exhausting…even when I feel ill-equipped…even when the end results don’t always go my way. Are you this way too?