Everything Happens for a Reason

I have been in deep thought lately..really thinking and trying to understand that there is a purpose for everything. I am thinking about my neighbor who's been missing..where he is and if he is okay. Ive also been thinking a lot about my brother who is leaving next week to go live with his aunt. Because of the details i have been told about the house and his living conditions, i just dont see how he has a shot at life. I lay awake at night and struggle with the thoughts of why things like this happen in the world...why the people i love have to get the bitter end of the deal. I just dont see how theres a reason behind this madness. yes, i constantly hear "just pray about it and let God take the rains.." but im sick of standing on the sidelines and just watching this happen over and over again (1) Some of the kids who come into my house and i have the privlidge to love end up having to go to a place less loving, less encouraging and full of fear. If i hold onto the idea that everything happens for a reason, does that make it okay to know the pain and fear my loved ones go through and just go on with my life as if life is beautiful and great?

I was told once that the human brain likes to find connections between things, so even it something random were to happen, people will see a connection between events.

"Some things are random in life and others, which appear to be random, aren't. One can gleem something, some purpose from seemingly random events. I don't think everything that happens is random--there are connections. Also, some are able to recognize something well beyond the surface--these individuals are more self-actualized, while others basically subscribe to the philosophy that is more commonly shared."

(1)While writing this i found comfort by a text from a friend in the way she views this idea..."I like to think that i am not in control of my life or anyone elses life but that i have an influence in the way some things or events happen. I dont want all the control because if i fail or mess up, i dont want to live with that guilt.

Overall, i think it comes down to me. I can choose to act on the reality of my life with deep thought, intentions and rage or i can choose to react to this life that is happening now. i can choose to love and reach out instead of wallow in my sorrows of how horrible this life can be. I can choose to understand that i am not in control and as much as id like to control the events of my loved ones, the reality is that i cant and i have to instead think of how i can better a situation by loving, caring, or just being present in a room. The phrase "Everything happens for a reason" may be true and its just harder for me to recognize the lesson behind it, but either way, submerging myself in deep thought will only lead to more pain and anger.

Pain is a part of life and if i dont experience it, i will never be able to fully appreciate the feeling of joy and happiness..just wish it didnt have to manifest through the people i love..