Often times we are asked, "How is your physical health?" How do you feel?

It is good for us to take five and ponder our physical being. In the area of a person's well-being, there is more than physical; we have mental, emotional and spiritual. Too often we cover up the spiritual by saying we have a higher power, and that is true but then we stop there and leave it alone.

In my view, a truly balanced individual is stable emotionally, physically, mentally and yes, spiritually. I believe we have all wondered at one time or another, "why am I here?" "What is my purpose?" "Where am I going and what am I supposed to be doing?"

It seems we are embarrassed if we talk too much about God, the Lord or Jesus. The very essence of spirituality is in the trinity and yet we always seem to leave this for the clergy or a "fanatic."

Most people seem to have the willingness to lend a hand when and where they can without the demand of a return for the extra help. A helping hand goes a long way. So does a smile, a simple "hello," or a hug and a kind word.

There are folks who wish not to share how they are doing emotionally or spiritually and it does not help to remain silent. It is quite apparent that men have the most difficulty in asking for the help or guidance. We men are deemed to be the leaders of the household so therefore we are strong and don't need any help.

That to me is a sensitive and an emotional discussion that will ultimately define the depth of the man's spirituality. As "the leader-of-the-home," it is our duty to protect, support and provide for our household at all costs. We must be there physically, emotionally, mentally and above all spiritually.

This is a tall order but it is a divine order. Unless we are reminded of our need of spiritual guidance and the significance of spiritual growth, our circle of human well-being will never achieve its full potential or have the sense of stability.

• Harry Maksagak is a Cambridge Bay resident and former underground miner at the Lupin gold mine. He has been married for 38 years and has six children and 26 grandchildren