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.
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.
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.
CLINTON DAILY NEWS EDITORIAL
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.
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.