Interesting perspectives, from both you and JohnQ. I thank you for your thought provoking responses.

Here's something that I came across not too long ago:

Romans 5:3-5 "3... but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us."

I read this and I think about God, purpose, and us, us who write here especially. I have to say this again: I apologize if I'm grossly out of line here, I really don't know much when it comes to the bible or any other religion. That's one reason I visit here..