A question I’ve been trying to ask more in the relationships that fill my life is a simple one, but one of massive importance. It’s a question that forces us to think outside ourselves, but it’s also a question that requires us to be fully prepared to listen, to truly listen to the answer given. So often in our lives we ask questions for no other reason than the automatic habit of asking, “How are you?” “What’s up?” “How’s it goin?” and yet we don’t even really register the true response. This question, the one posed in the haiku below, is one that forces us outside the auto-ask-ignore-answer mode, and makes us truly think.
I find that I'm asking myself this very question, and there is no easy answer. Over my 49 years, I've endured loss. My brother was killed at 19 by a drunk driver, my dad was taken from us at 56 by a massive heart attack, the 27 year marriage I fought hard to save ended, jobs I loved ended, pets who will forever be in my heart crossed the Rainbow Bridge. My daughter had two miscarriages, and with that, two grandchildren I will never know. I lost my independence last year when I destroyed my knee and needed surgery, someone to drive me to my appointments, and significant help with daily living.
What do I want out of all I've endured? To be the best version of me I can be. True to myself, compassionate, and understanding of others as they navigate their own pain and struggle. A shoulder to lean on because I've been there, a way for others to learn to love the scars that show they've lived and were stronger than their storms.
This is what we all share - this journey through pain and bliss. This is the moment to looking clearly at who you are and what you want.....Great post Tyler....Mahalo.
I find that I'm asking myself this very question, and there is no easy answer. Over my 49 years, I've endured loss. My brother was killed at 19 by a drunk driver, my dad was taken from us at 56 by a massive heart attack, the 27 year marriage I fought hard to save ended, jobs I loved ended, pets who will forever be in my heart crossed the Rainbow Bridge. My daughter had two miscarriages, and with that, two grandchildren I will never know. I lost my independence last year when I destroyed my knee and needed surgery, someone to drive me to my appointments, and significant help with daily living.
What do I want out of all I've endured? To be the best version of me I can be. True to myself, compassionate, and understanding of others as they navigate their own pain and struggle. A shoulder to lean on because I've been there, a way for others to learn to love the scars that show they've lived and were stronger than their storms.
Thank you. Just. Thank you.
This is what we all share - this journey through pain and bliss. This is the moment to looking clearly at who you are and what you want.....Great post Tyler....Mahalo.