Can we bear it?

[markdohle]

Can we bear it?

To fail to reach out when in need leads to further isolation.

The fear of being rebuffed can cause a mortal inner wound,

wherein walls get higher and more difficult to cross,

and all we do is smile and say:

“I am fine thank you”.

Fear can be a comforting cold,

a grey shroud easily overlooked,

for smiles can hide so much,

though only for a limited period.

Those we know are most likely kind,

we can make too much of their failings,

and forget to see the compassion below the surface;

if only to reach out for communion

with understated courage can be done,

in spite of the fear and perhaps shame.

For we all understand weakness

when present in one loved,

it makes it so close,

so human,

that stereotypes drop before realities stark truth,

of our common struggle to be simply human,

compassionate,

and true to ourselves.

In the crowds the press against us,

there are unique universes filled with joy and pain,

we pass each other without touching,

looking down,

or to the left or right,

perhaps giving a slight smile

and a how do you do (?),

but eye contact for a second only.

All we can do are little things,

but to see,

to be kind,

to smile sincerely,

and if possible to touch,

to see below the bluster,

smiles and laughs

of both friends and strangers alike,

is enough if it can be done.

For like a wave does kindness flow out,

to touch a heart leaves a seed that flowers later,

perhaps going on forever,

the same for pain given in verbal lashes

or hard stares,

perhaps they also flow on eternally,

such is the power of our actions

often unconsciously done.

We can all be healers,

for behind all the eyes that you see,

dwells divinity looking ,

also seeing with your eyes,

perhaps we are called to see

with the eyes of Christ those around us;

can we bear that burden and joy?