Be wise and take the long view

READER Maggie was kind enough to tell me that last week’s top quotation (sent in by Margot) is in fact a Native American (Cree tribe) prophecy.

That makes the sentiment about the environment and greed all the more powerful for me. Maggie continued: ‘Do you have any words for those of us worried sick about the political situation at the moment?

‘In all my life, I don’t think I’ve ever been so concerned as now. I am normally an optimistic sort of person, but the past few days I have felt anxious. Sorry to bother you with it, but my lovely family don’t understand why it worries me so much.’

Last week’s ‘And Finally’ struck a chord with many readers, equally disturbed as I am about intolerance. You know: ‘I disagree with your views therefore I despise you.’

For example, J wrote full of sadness because a friend of 60 years’ standing has dumped her because she voted for Brexit and doesn’t vote Labour.

Yes, we live in a country of political divisions, Maggie, but hasn’t that always been the case? Human failings are perennial — but so are our strengths. We see both in the news.

When faced by horrors that make us weep with pity and terror, surely we should also kneel before those miraculous qualities (courage, compassion and love) which represent the true glory of the human spirit.

At 70, I see the wisdom of taking the long view and not getting worked up over politics and personalities that do not last for ever.

So I look from my window at the beauty of nature and the delight on the face of my five-year-old grandson — and know that’s what matters. After all, everything will pass.

Reflecting on those killed in the English Civil War, the poet T. S. Eliot wisely dismisses political divisions: ‘These men and those who opposed them / And those whom they opposed / Accept the constitution of silence / And are folded in a single party.’

BeL answers readers’ questions on emotional and relationship problems each week. Write to Bel Mooney, Daily Mail, 2 Derry Street, London W8 5TT, or email bel.mooney@dailymail.co.uk. A pseudonym will be used if you wish. Bel reads all letters but regrets she cannot enter into personal correspondence.