Scars

Scars…

Everyone has at least one, well hidden or right at sight for anyone to see. The story behind them might be of bravery or, the opposite, forever ashamed for a wrong decision. The last one forever hurts and weights up in any future decision. 

For some, scars are reminder that they survived. For others, a reminder that they failed. But both are alive, and with that focus in mind, a deep appreciation for Life’s second chances is something we all should feel. 

You, me, we are alive, with stories to tell and simple dreams to fulfil.

Everyone has regrets, but the weight in them depends on the lesson we choose to embrace. I have regrets that will over shadow some laughs, some wishes, but I recognise them and with that in mind I hold on to second chances, and of course, more importantly, I try not to repeat them.

In the past I once chose to be selfish and blind. Even if a bit unconsciously, I chose not to see or be seen. But hiding yourself in a cave, lying to yourself about what’s really happening, will only amplify your inner fears. Because of that scar that is now present in me, I have learned that selfishness is an infertile ground, and whatever the situation we’re facing, it’s always best to say and do whatever will bring love, peace and laughter to that moment.

Then Life will continue to shape us and our reaction to things will change. If life is not an easy task, let’s find a reason to find some fulfilment: kids, partners, work, friends, mission… a good life is not about self pleasures, but most, about friends, family, social interaction. Sure, we can live some crazy adventure on our own, but sharing that story afterwards is what will give more meaning to it.

So we need LOVE.

Being crazy rich, being super smart will create a successful life, but without Love, without that understanding of others and their emotions, you’re alone.

Love, also unusually called Flow, is what will give yourself meaning. Flow and Play. Savouring what Life as to offer while embracing Life’s challenges, while being mindfulness of what is out and inside you. And being present. Being present in our friends life, in our loved ones lives, being cheerful with gratitude for Life’s second chance to get it right this time.

“Attention without feeling … is only a report.”

“The end of life has its own nature, also worth our attention. I don’t say this without reckoning in the sorrow, the worry, the many diminishments. But surely it is then that a person’s character shines or glooms.”
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Mary Oliver

We are all close to an end, for Life always seems to short in time. whatever is that we are dwelling on, let’s find the compassion to forgive, to understand and to give a second chance. We all need each other, we all need to be loved, we all need to find some fulfilment and purpose in Life. If not, we stay sad and feel as outsiders, and too soon we’ll give up. Don’t give up, face your scars and praise them for your strength in surviving them.

A scar does not form on the dying. A scar means I survived.

—  Chris Cleave, Little Bee