In a world of violence and threatened families, some see Pope John Paul II as a voice in a modern wilderness. He stands firm against the profound change in the way in which life and relationships between people are considered".In the face of daily fears, he warns that, "serious demographic, social and family problems which weigh upon many of the world's peoples and which require responsible and effective attention... are left open to false and deceptive solutions, opposed to the truth and the good of persons and nations".Today, "conscience itself...is finding it increasingly difficult to distinguish between good and evil in what concerns the basic value of human life".He asks us to "work to ensure that justice and solidarity will increase and that a new culture of human life will be affirmed, for the building of an authentic civilization of truth and love".The Holy Father's thoughts herein focus on our primary relationships: to the self, to others, and to God. Included are brief interludes: on the Holy Spirit who guides us, and on the spirituality of work, where we man manifest connections to all relationships.