Gift of Woundedness

It cannot be denied that some of us are wounded in some way. It may be from the kind of home we grew up in, from treatment in school, from neighborhood experiences, or other issues. We may have tried to heal these wounds through therapy or counseling or through the love of friends or spouses. We may try to hide our scars, but that's hard to do when they are still festering. Sometimes we try to forget and put on a happy face, but those who know us well can usually see through that. 

We need to find ways to heal, but we also can use our woundedness to comfort others. Wounds can make us very compassionate people who are able to understand others that are hurting. So many people need someone just to listen, to reassure those who are lonely or feel like no one cares. Because we have been in a similar place, we can reach out with words or actions that aided us. 

Often wounded people feel like they are unable to help others because they themselves are scarred. Yet it is that very reason that they can detect others who are hurting. They've been there. They know the signs of sadness and fear. They are more likely to take the time to reach out to those in need of a listening ear or a caring touch. 

It is by caring for each other that we can build a healthier, happier community.