My cousin, in remission from cancer, called this morning. He launched in by inquiring about my health. Persons who dare to approach those of us who are older and battling various weaknesses, do so with courage and at their own risk.

Fact is, most of us who are experiencing a variety of woes need the consolation of a sensitive ear. His voice always invites willingness to listen. His sensitivity, having gone through his own struggles, always resounds with empathy and thoughtfulness. His is one of those calls that matter most.

Truth is, the more we encounter the perils of aging, the more we need to be surrounded, in caring ways, by those

If you are one of those who has been hit by the huge and unforgiving storms of the last several days, you are not likely reading this column today. Your household has been totally devastated. Your heart is broken. Your life is in shambles. Your family, hopefully, will have survived. For those who lost loved ones, it is a hurt beyond words.

Everything in and about your life has been tragically and terribly altered. It is impossible to make sense of it. Neighbors, like you, wander through the field of disaster in a daze. An old man clutches his pet and cries. A child is the only member of her family left alive. Every school in one town is in total disrepair. There is nothing but litter and pieces and parts scattered everywhere. With the deluge of stuff in mounds everywhere, there is not much hope, not much promise.