Shards of Suffering

A recent viewing of the Canadian film, "Maudie" is the fodder for a reflection on suffering. Based on the life story of Nova Scotia artist, Maude Lewis, the film invites us into a life that was filled with extreme physical and emotional suffering. Maude was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at a young age, and additionally entered into a marriage that was colored with the dark hues of violence. Even so, her art, and the legacy she left behind, reveal an indomitable spirit and a playful heart.

Let us be frank in our conversation - there is nothing good or pleasant about suffering. It is not nobel or beautiful. Suffering hurts. Long-term suffering wears us down, squeezing life from our bones. Whether it be mental, emotional, or physical, pain costs us dearly in every part of our being.

What then of our suffering - truly nothing good? Perhaps I write in haste. If our suffering may be alleviated let us endeavor to that end. If not - it may be desirable to ask ourselves this: as suffering slowly carves away bits of oneself, what is left that cannot be taken by loss, hardship, pain or distress? Whatever the answer, it reflects one's deepest truth.

Suffering will prune us, shearing away limb, twig and leaf until our roots lay exposed. It can take us to the cliff's edge of darkness where we peer into despair. And then... and then choice: drown in despair for what has been stolen from us, or exalt in the strength, truth, and wonder of what is revealed in the pruning. 

“Out of suffering have emerged the strongest souls; the most massive characters are seared with scars.” (Kahlil Gibran) This may be so. I have known many who have suffered beyond comprehension, and they emanate a great light illuminating a heart of strength, compassion, and resolve. Perhaps it is that their suffering carved away the unnecessary bits of their humanity, leaving an essence for which we all strive. On the other hand, I have known some whose suffering broke them, making them in turn breakers of others. 

If you suffer, you truly have my compassion. I have only this for comfort - seek your deepest, truest self, beyond the pain, beyond the loss. Cling to your roots, be greater than despair. There is a place within, beyond this world of hurt, that is pure, brilliant, true. This place is your refuge - seek it hungrily. 

Flowing tears and aching hearts.

Something to ponder...

Living amongst the shards,
B