In the midst of a celebration, friends and neighbors will come out of the woodwork to come drink the champagne and pat you on the back. These times are sweet and are definitely the best of times. What happens in the worst of times? A friend of mine recently went through a significant trial that was thrust upon him. We were discussing his experience and he recounted how isolated he felt as he went through the fire. This discussion challenged me and caused me to evaluate how I respond when those around me are going through tough times. I have withdrawn because I am concerned about my reputation, or didn't know how to help and in some cases; thought they got what they deserve. Divorce is a brutal example as alliances are drawn between friends and family that were toasting the blessed couple just a short time ago. It is good to know who is in your corner and support you in the midst of the daily fight; mending the cuts, icing the bruises and sometimes just listening without needing to fix the problem. Oftentimes the greatest need is to just listen, laugh or mourn. Everyone is facing a fight of some kind, draw near be the person that can be counted upon.

What trial did you go through where friends disappeared? Who has supported you in the midst of a battle? How did you feel this support? What reasons do you typically use to withdraw from someone in the fight? Who needs you in their corner? What is one action you can do to help?