David Friedman wrote:
>I was just wondering what the right attitude towards
>anti-depressants should be in light of the passages from the
>Writings which say that hardships/suffering are a good thing...In the
>Writings it says that God never burdens a soul beyond their
>capacity. Does this mean with or without medical assistance?
>
I think there are a variety of ways in which suffering may be a positive,
and because suffering is both such a universal experience and at the same
time such an obstacle to clear-thinking when we're going through it, most
holy Writings make a point of assuring us that we may well rejoice at
suffering.
An analogy from the Old Testament is that of the crucible, where rough ore
is melted and prepared for the anvil, which ultimately leads to a product of
great utility or beauty. If the rock was told beforehand to rejoice because
of the suffering he must undergo in the hands of the smith in order to
become an object of great value, he might or might not remain philosophical
during the process; but in retrospect, from his new perspective as a piece
of jewelry or sword blade or whatever, he might indeed see it as a positive
experience.
Having said that, it makes perfect sense to seek whatever legitimate help
works best in treating conditions which may actually be biochemical in
origin. I don't think the point of the passages on suffering is that it is
improper to seek to alleviate suffering either in others or in ourselves. I
think the point is to understand that suffering in one form or another is a
constant on the material plane and that it is challenging.
Dave L.
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