It's time to gain a little perspective

Sometimes I feel like the most selfish, petty person in the world. I complain about some of the most trivial "problems" a person could have while there are people in this world who do not have sufficient food or shelter. I worry about hurtful words while some people literally dodge bullets. I get upset when I feel lonely because my friends and family aren't always as supportive as I feel they should be while some people are truly alone without any family or any support of any kind.

My biggest problem right now is that my sister is mad at me for auditioning for EDT. Meanwhile, there are hundreds of people dying of cholera in Haiti because they've had to live in unsanitary tents since the deadly earthquake that struck in January - 9 months ago. People in Indonesia are burning and suffocating to death in the ash, gas and heat of an errupting volcano. Innocent people in war-torn countries are injured or die in bombs. People are washed away in tsunamis. Many lose their homes and everything they own in hurricanes.

I have grown up in quiet, friendly Minnesota. I've had everything I've needed and then some pretty much handed to me on a silver platter. I went to school and graduated from a private university. I had a job right out of college and have insurance and a steady income. I spend my money on frivolous things like fancy coffee, "cute" boots and way more clothes than any person really needs. I have my own car and live at home, rent-free, with plenty of food provided to me. I have a huge support system of family and friends. They might not have come to my marathon or shown the most interest in every one of my many endeavors, but they're there when I need them most. They really care about me and aren't afraid to be honest with me, even if it temporarily upsets me.

It's so easy to lose perspective and believe that my trivial issues are worth my complaints, but I really need to get over that. My time would be much better spent figuring out what I can do for others. Of whom much is given, much is expected, right? I have definitely been given a lot. That makes for some pretty significant expectations...