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The other major feature of the Human Condition is the underlying
feelings of sorrow and despair that continually threaten to overwhelm human beings. As humans, we are all subject to physical dangers,
ill-health, accidents, earthquakes, floods, fires, etc. which can cause loss and pain. But to have, and actively indulge in, emotional
suffering additional to these hardships is to compound the situation to such an extent that the resulting feelings are usually far worse than
dealing with the facts of the situation.
To be conscious beings, aware of our emotional suffering is held as the distinction
between us and the rest of the animal world. As such, sorrow, sadness and despair are accepted as an integral unchangeable part of the Human
Condition. Indeed emotional suffering is even lauded as a noble trait. To suffer rightly or deeply is held in high esteem and often evokes a
bitter-sweet feeling. Compassion and empathy – our compulsion to emotional suffer others’ emotional sorrow – are also universally held
in high esteem for the solace and bitter-sweet feelings evoked.
Human sorrow is based on feelings of separation, loneliness, fear, helplessness,
despair and dread and many people know only too well the sorrowful spiral downwards from melancholy to sadness, depression, despair and
eventually to suicidal feelings.
These are indeed the Sad Times.
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