As we pray for succor, we must prepare to suffer

FROM the headline down, this is hardly an enticing column. Who wants to read about being ready for pain and sorrow?

We all just want to chill and cheer inside fortresses of wealth, armaments, power, science and technology, fending off earthly threats and failings until the very last moments when human lifespans finally cease. Except that it doesn't work out so neatly.