As I open my sleepy eyes, the radio is pouring out its news. The big story is the removal of a boy from his home because of abuse. Unexpected emotions sweep over me. The world flashes before my eyes, and I see and feel intensely. I catch glimpses of a world I do not recognize. Panic rises in me, tightens my throat and I whisper, “It’s happening again. What in life am I missing this time?”
What triggered the last such emotional storm? Now I remember – it was when my old friend talked of his childhood, living with an abusive father. Hearing of the pain, physical and mental, that he endured, introduced me to realities I did not know existed. Despite it all, my friend grew into a well-adjusted, loving man. He also gave me a beautiful glimpse of the other side of his troubled childhood – his wise and loving mother. She enabled her sons to handle their troubles and grow into strong family men.
Life is unpredictable. Often uneventful, its patterns can change without warning. Something extremely good or bad can happen. As the storm clouds build and my panic rises, how critical my reoccurring flashes are for me. Remembering past crises helps me to be calmer about present ones. Acting as life’s lamp posts, they illuminate the path ahead, offering me Beauty and Hope as my companions through my remaining years.
Another valuable, and nicely presented, perspective. Thank you.
Thank you, Ralph. The shorter they are, the more revisions are required – this one took quite a few. It is nice to have a patient editor too.
Who said, “Life is a circle, when things get as bad as you think they can get, life will being to turn upward & better again.” ?
Oh, I remember, it was Archie Bunker’s wife Edith.
Hi Barbara – Always two sides to the coin, eh? A bit of optimism helps.
Marjorie, I’m reminded again that every down has an up, and every up has a down. They don’t necessarily balance each other, but I know that I am a better person today because of some painful things that I would rather not have experienced. Does that compensate for the pain? No, but even so, I would not be who I am without that experience.
Thanks for keeping writing,
Jim T
Thanks for the comment, Jim. Who was that ancient mythical person who said; “I am a part of all that I have seen”? Don’t know about the “seeing”, but it hits the mark if it reads “I am a part of all that I have experienced”. Life is a great educator. As for the writing – it enriches my life, and so far I have no plans to stop. I appreciate your support.
Beautifully said Marjorie. It’s such a poignant reminder that all our experiences, whether good or bad, influence who we become as we travel through our lives. It shows that even difficult times can be overcome with loving support and the wisdom to not repeat damaging behaviour.
Keep on writing! See you soon.
Liz – There is an old saying which I probably will scramble, but goes something like this: “Too early old, too late smart”! How fortunate we are to have loving and wise monitors in our lives. That is one great asset – the other is learning the value of listening. See you soon.
As always, I admire your attitude and warm heart toward the world. Thank you for sharing your wisdom.
Seungji – As always, lovely to hear from you. Thank you for your kind words. I don’t feel “wise”, but do enjoy people. If something I write helps anyone, it is a gift for me.