able to comfort

Would you rather be comfortable, or able to comfort? How, exactly, does one learn to comfort? Is it natural for some, and therefore, done at will? I honestly don't think so. I submit to you that you have to be uncomfortable, for a season, in order to comfort. So, knowing that, which would you choose--to be comfortable, or able to comfort?

My father called one day recently and asked how I was doing. "I'm blessed. Thank you for asking." He laughed and said, "Yeah. Blessed with problems!"

A few days ago there was nothing in the freezer to prepare for dinner. No money would come in for several days. So I took out my WIC coupons, which are from the Department of Agriculture. Designed for pregnant or breastfeeding mothers and for children under five-years-old, the program (not an entitlement) provides supplemental milk, cheese, eggs, cereal, and juice. My guess is that many a family use these coupons to obtain egg and cheese omelet fixings for a few dinners, while waiting for payday to arrive.

I'm grateful for the help. And I now know the shame of putting food coupons on the checkout stand while everyone stares--at me, at my clothes, purse, and shoes--wondering if I am truly poor. They are either disgusted, neutral, or compassionate.

I am uncomfortable, for a season. And now, I am equipped to comfort. I will forever be the compassionate one at the checkout stand, ready with a smile.

Yes, Dad. My problems are a blessing.