It’s too Heavy

We are taught to serve others and to "bear one another's burdens."  Who?  What?  Why?  Where?  How?  When?  Surprisingly this is not a new principal and is taught by nearly every religion; fraternity; sorority; sports teams and the US Military.
I have shared the Soldier's Creed as well as the Army Values, a line within the Creed states:
"I will never leave a fallen comrade."
As fraternal brothers we have promised to help a brother in need.
As teammates we recognized every single person's role was necessary.
In athletics as well as in the military it was quickly identified who the "weak links" would be.  We also knew that we truly were only as strong as our weakest member.  So do we just leave this teammate?
Many have covenanted, or taken oaths, or live by values that does not allow, us to simply walk away.  You can even say the better part of humanity can't ignore the fallen.  But how far must one fall before they deserve our attention or before a hand reaches out, or an encouraging word is shared?

I have witnessed first hand the incredible strength of an outstretch hand, and by the countless words of encouragement.  Some of the greatest blessings in my life, are friends, both near and far.  Communities, neighbors and neighborhoods, Soldiers I was blessed to serve with and among, and most importantly family.
The constant outpouring of love and support is continually overwhelming.  The timing is never a coincidence.  We are blessed to have the guiding hand of a Loving Father in Heaven, who is willing and able to use each of us to aid and bless the lives of others.  There are so many instances of discouragement, or down right fear, when someone has called or texted, or showed up at our door with a smile or a hug.  These "simple" gestures have become exponential.
Call it fate or karma, or by it's real name of charity, it has blessed my life, and the life of my family.  My incredible wife and I sit in amazement all the time.  We pray that we too can be mindful and have the same ability to reach out and help others the way we have experienced.
No one should ever feel alone or so overwhelmed that they can't continue.  If you have/do feel completely stretched, please take a breath, and look for someone’s burden you can make light.  Our efforts are seen, and it is always paid forward.
Physically I struggle to pay things forward, to give back when I have seem so much good and received and felt the love and prayers of so many, too many to count anymore, especially as it continues to grow and make me a better person.  Please know my heart is full of gratitude, and I am overwhelmed by the countless ways my burdens have been made light.
I owe an eternal amount of gratitude to my sweet wife.  She has taken more than her fair share, but continues to put others first.  I love you and I am grateful to have you with me.

-Nate Taylor

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