Many people are experiencing significant pain and loss in our community and nation. The willingness to face our difficulties, and not run away - to be open and available to hear other people's pain - gives us a chance to heal, grow and experience a shared humanity with others who are suffering. Behind our fears of facing difficulties, health or financial challenges and other losses, is the ultimate fear of mortality. Not facing our fears, or running away, leads to acting destructively to ourselves and those around us.