I think of Ukraine.

“Look at the tears of those who are oppressed; they have no one to comfort them.  Power is with those who oppress them; they have no one to comfort them” (v. 1).

What a heartache.  It is true.  The oppressed are often subject to powers over them, and few to help them.  It’s a terrible thing.  Frustrating to feel so helpless.

There’s another thing futile.  And that is the loneliness that comes with wealth. Like a man who has no family and labors hard for wealth, for what?  What’s the point?  Why?

It’s in this context Solomon says “two are better than one,” because they can help and bless each other.

And then there’s a king.  He came from poverty to become king, but heeds no warnings.  And the reality?  Those who came before him died and won’t be remembered, and those who came after him will die and not be remember.

“This too is futile and a pursuit of the wind” (v. 16).