To the Editor:
Lynne Hummell’s column in the last Bluffton Sun (Sept. 14) was thought-provoking as well as humorous, as usual! I never thought about my having a “permanent record” of some sort floating around in the universe. And if I did, it’s nothing that would concern me.
What her column DID get me thinking about was my computer records. Meaning, if I pass into the Great Beyond overnight, what’s going to happen to all the stuff on my computer, i.e., the emails in my inbox waiting for a reply, my “sent” folder, my “trash” folder (which I do delete on occasion)?
It would be up to my significant other to bother with getting rid of all that. And believe me, he wouldn’t care what was on my computer, let alone all those hard-copy medical, subscription, and miscellaneous documents I’ve got in labeled folders in the file drawer.
But think about it: Would you have an issue with anyone – after you pass – poring through the myriad of communications on your computer? That email from a very close friend pouring her heart out to you in exquisite detail; or your response, in which you may have shared some personal details meant only for her eyes.
At the end of the day, once you’ve ventured to the Other Universe, other than your will and certain legal documents, nothing will matter anymore in terms of records. But, at least thinking about this prompts one to make a concerted effort to clear out those old hard-copy file folders and the stuff in one’s computer files. For me, this will be an ongoing, endless process.
Barb Costa
Bluffton
To the Editor:
Has friendship become a passé word in our fast-paced, troubled world?
Webster’s describes a friend this way, “A person on the same side in a struggle.” An ally, supporter, compassionate , empathetic.
My pastor’s recent sermon on Christian friendship caused me to reflect on just how much society has forgotten why friends are important. Historic best-sellers such as Dale Carnegie’s 1936 book “How to Win Friends And Influence People,” John Steinbeck’s 1937 book “Of Mice and Men,” and Carole King’s inspiring lyrics, “You’ve Got a Friend” seem a distant past.
Sure we can sing in church, “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and read scripture, such as Colossians 3:13, “You must make allowance for others’ faults and forgive the person who offends you,” but then what?
Psychology Today states that strong friendships are a critical aspect of most people’s emotional well-being and associated with greater happiness, self-esteem and sense of purpose. So how do we apply this desirable mentality to our daily lives?
Here is what the professionals suggest: Be there. Listen! Get facts. Determine needs. Make physical contact. Make tough calls.
Here are further suggestions that can also make you a happier friend: Don’t be judgmental. Be respectful, loyal, truthful. Laugh! Walk the walk together.
Finally, as we aspire to be another’s friend, be reminded and encouraged by Mr. Rogers’ famous lines, “Won’t you be my neighbor?” and “I like you just the way you are!”
Earle Everett
Moss Creek
