Walking Wounded

The walking wounded. They’re among us. They are us. We all carry something that has changed us forever. Could be an illness. Could be a past trauma. Could be a combination of many different things. But one thing that I have learned, kindness can lighten the load. So lighten it.

We all have a story. And for many, we are so consumed with our own pain, that we are blind to the fact that others are carrying pain as well. Let’s start there. I have yet to meet anyone that hasn’t been wronged, beaten, or abused in some way or form. Maybe by another person. Maybe by a system. Could even be by genetics. The point is, we have no idea what someone is carrying around.

I have worked in mental health my entire life. I have seen people who you would think at first glance, have it all together. Yet, they were at the end of their ropes. Making bad decisions, acting out, all in an attempt to end the pain. But they carried their pain well. In other words, they suffered in silence. And to make matters worse, if they had one bad day, or made one mistake…then they get blasted on social media. Here’s a thought. Shut the fuck up. Don’t judge. Be an ally. Offer a safe space.

I am reminded of the countless times over my life, that someone has reached out and thanked me for doing just that. Doesn’t make me special. It makes me aware. Spending 40 years in mental health, I know that many ask how you are doing. But few really care. And I know this by the amount of clients who sat in my office feeling alienated by family and friends. Like they weren’t allowed to be human. Simply heart breaking.

Forget the zombie apocalypse. It’s not coming. It is here. People are hurting. People are addicted. People are killing themselves. Let’s all slow down. By all means make yourself the priority. But on the days when you can share a little kindness, please do. Because we are among the walking wounded. And your kindness maybe enough to keep someone going. May it be so.