Simply a Title in the File

"Each has his past shut in him

like the leaves of a book

known to him by his heart

and his friends can only read the title."

Virginia Wolf

The basic need for a human being is to be listened to and to be heard; and to be embraced and loved.  Each of us desires a sense of home, either a mental or physical place where we can be at rest from the challenges and stresses of our life.  We need a space where we can just 'be' without limitations or judgements.  We need room to breathe.

It is sometimes wise to hold our cards close to our chests, but to build trusted relationships we  need to run the risk of disclosure.  We can choose a therapist, minister, mentor, or a friend who has proven themselves to be trustworthy. 

It is a sad statistic that  documents many people disclose their worst fears or traumatic experiences to total strangers as they hope to never face them again.  This may offer  temporary relief, but it does not guarantee loving kindness as a response.  If the stranger is not compassionate, we run the risk of further rejection and shame.

I am blessed by healthy friendships with some being labeled Sisters of My Heart.  They have repeatedly provided me with a safe place to reflect who I am, who I have been, and who I hope to be.  They have frequently cheered me on, walked with me, and been prepared to carry me as needed.  It is not so much whether or not they understand or agree with me.  The salvation comes from the generous acceptance and unconditional love. 

Each of us are like a book and over the years, our pages get ripped, stained or torn.  Our life lessons tug at our binding and chapters are highlighted or underscored.  Some paragraphs may be blacked out or comments might be scribbled in the side margins.  It is up to each of us as the author of our tales to decide if we want to be an open book or simply a random title in the files.