Searching for serenity through troubling times

DEAR HARRIETTE: Since August, I have committed myself to peace and happiness. Unfortunately, since doing this, every trial and trouble has been presented at my doorstep. What are the best ways to handle tribulations while trying to remain in a positive and serene place mentally and emotionally? Any advice will be helpful. — Searching for Happiness DEAR SEARCHING FOR HAPPINESS: I believe there is a Bible verse that says that the closer you get to being in union with God, the more obstacles will come before you. To live in a constant state of peace takes a tremendous amount of discipline, focus and work. You have to be vigilant. So much of it is about attitude. When bad things happen, how do you react to them? Practice observing what's come into your life without responding right away. Stand back. Notice the person, situation or impediment that has shown up. Consider what it is, why it may be there and what lesson you can learn from it, then take action. Often, the best response is no response. You can see whatever is before you for what it is, recognize that it is out of your control or not necessary to address and move on. Sometimes you will have to deal with it. Then look for a way to handle the moment and leave honor on all sides of it. Backing yourself or someone else into a corner can be dangerous and unnecessary, especially if your goal is peace. Take each situation one step at a time.

In appreciation of our veterans

Saturday, Nov. 11, is Veterans Day, a day set aside to recognize those who have served in our nation’s armed forces. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs calls this a day of celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good. I would hope this is a day we say thank you to all the veterans in our lives and those we meet.

World Wars come to small English town

FRAMLINGHAM, England — This little market town 14 miles from the North Sea is an unlikely place to discover the meaning of World War I, whose end at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month is the reason Congress originally set Veterans Day — originally known as Armistice Day — for Nov. 11.

Compartment syndrome, how it happens

Dear Doctors: What is compartment syndrome, and how does it happen? I developed this following an embolism from hip replacement surgery. I had eight days on wound vacuum-assisted closure, plus physical therapy. The hip is fine now, but nerve damage along my leg to my foot and ankle persists.

Boyfriend living rent-free charges for apartment

DEAR HARRIETTE: I am 22, and I am dating a 30-year-old man who is a residence life coordinator at a dormitory for a large Midwestern university. A part of his benefits is that he has an apartment attached to the dorm, so if the residence assistants need him, he is there. This apartment does not have any rent attached to it.

A vital bipartisan alliance

Democrats should be deeply grateful to Mitch McConnell, the Republican Senate leader. He has emerged as the strongest defender of President Biden's worldview: America's own vital interests depend on supporting our allies in Israel and Ukraine and defending democratic values around the world.

Poll exposes flaw in Trump opponents’ plan

The headline from a new Des Moines Register- NBC News poll of Iowa is that former President Donald Trump still has a big lead in the Republican race. Among those likely to take part in the Iowa caucuses, Trump is at 43%, with Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley tied for second place, at 16%. So, Trump has a 27-point lead, which is actually bigger than his lead in the last Des Moines Register poll in August.

It always comes back to sex

Show me a book-banner, and I'll show you a would-be tyrant. The same applies to individuals who seek to promote mandatory speech: what you're forbidden to read, what you must say. Almost always, such efforts involve everybody's favorite pastime: judging the intimate lives of others.

DO JUST ONE THING

For people who make floral arrangements, OASIS floral foam is a commonly used material that helps keep stems in place ... but it's also bad for the environment. This kind of floral foam is impossible to recycle, it's not reusable, and when it does break down, it turns into microplastics. If you're looking for a greener alternative, search for blocks from Agra Wool, which are made from totally biodegradable materials like mineral rock fibers and sugarbased glues. And the best part? This version is reusable, too.

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