A profoundly moving and meaningful read. Living the questions - that's an amazing, and difficult task to even contemplate. And yet, it's what life is about during the highs but especially during the lows.
"Because it’s the pain that has deepened my ability to sit with others who cry in anguish. I no longer wince or cringe at raw displays of emotion, because I have joined the ranks of the bereaved." Those are powerful words. Witnessing - that's what that is, and it's priceless.
And I love the beautiful photo of your sweet baby girl. Also, I appreciate the poem. Thank you for writing and sharing your words.
Your words, 'It’s the pain that has deepened my ability to sit with others who cry in anguish,' struck a chord with me. I've often wondered how to truly support those who are suffering, and your essay reminded me that sometimes, the most compassionate thing we can do is simply be present and acknowledge their pain. Thank you for sharing.
@Alexander Lovell, PhD presence is the most powerful gift we can offer to another person. I believe a calm, human presence can comfort someone in pain—without words or activity. Just being with another. Just sitting by their side. Offering a hand to hold or a shoulder to lean on. Making room for their tears and wails. This is transformative. It seems simple, but I’ve found there is much inner work to be done for a person doing the accompanying first. We have to be content within ourselves in order to become the gift for another person.
Beautifully written. And it goes back to something that I continue to try and work on - not fixing everything. Most things are perfectly fine to begin with, and I’m only trying to fix them because I’m uncomfortable.
I think it’s the discomfort that propels a lot of us into this state of interior emergency, like: “I have to get rid of this feeling right now, because it feels unsafe.” Leaning into the discomfort, knowing it is temporary and will pass, has helped me confront my fears with greater clarity and strength.
Oh yes - I agree. We get to a point where feelings (especially specifically ones) just feel too real and permanent, and we forget that there are so many other feelings available to us. It is life changing!
My first thought after reading was, if I don't subscribe to this, then there's nothing worth subscribing to. It is truly inspiring to see you pen down some of the more difficult moments of your life and let us be a part of your journey. Sending all my love to you, Sarah, and your family. Please keep writing.
Rahul, your words are so affirming to me today. I want you to know that I needed to hear this. I've been doubting my voice and writing. Now I feel I have the strength to continue.
When I was younger I wanted to know all the answers to the questions and now in my later years, the answers are revealed as and when they are meant to be. I remember when my oldest child had to have major surgery as a 6 year old and the fear we felt about it as parents but it pales in comparison to your experience. Thank you for sharing this brave piece.
Jeannie, thank you for sharing such a heartfelt essay. It’s a timely reminder to live today, and of life’s uncertainties. Sarah is beautiful and you are lucky to have each other.
Jeannie,
A profoundly moving and meaningful read. Living the questions - that's an amazing, and difficult task to even contemplate. And yet, it's what life is about during the highs but especially during the lows.
"Because it’s the pain that has deepened my ability to sit with others who cry in anguish. I no longer wince or cringe at raw displays of emotion, because I have joined the ranks of the bereaved." Those are powerful words. Witnessing - that's what that is, and it's priceless.
And I love the beautiful photo of your sweet baby girl. Also, I appreciate the poem. Thank you for writing and sharing your words.
Thank you for your thoughtful comment, Nancy. I appreciate you being here with me.
Time stood still as I read this Jeannie.
Your writing is exquisite. 💞
Wow, thank you, Danusia!
Your words, 'It’s the pain that has deepened my ability to sit with others who cry in anguish,' struck a chord with me. I've often wondered how to truly support those who are suffering, and your essay reminded me that sometimes, the most compassionate thing we can do is simply be present and acknowledge their pain. Thank you for sharing.
@Alexander Lovell, PhD presence is the most powerful gift we can offer to another person. I believe a calm, human presence can comfort someone in pain—without words or activity. Just being with another. Just sitting by their side. Offering a hand to hold or a shoulder to lean on. Making room for their tears and wails. This is transformative. It seems simple, but I’ve found there is much inner work to be done for a person doing the accompanying first. We have to be content within ourselves in order to become the gift for another person.
Beautifully written. And it goes back to something that I continue to try and work on - not fixing everything. Most things are perfectly fine to begin with, and I’m only trying to fix them because I’m uncomfortable.
I think it’s the discomfort that propels a lot of us into this state of interior emergency, like: “I have to get rid of this feeling right now, because it feels unsafe.” Leaning into the discomfort, knowing it is temporary and will pass, has helped me confront my fears with greater clarity and strength.
Oh yes - I agree. We get to a point where feelings (especially specifically ones) just feel too real and permanent, and we forget that there are so many other feelings available to us. It is life changing!
My first thought after reading was, if I don't subscribe to this, then there's nothing worth subscribing to. It is truly inspiring to see you pen down some of the more difficult moments of your life and let us be a part of your journey. Sending all my love to you, Sarah, and your family. Please keep writing.
Rahul, your words are so affirming to me today. I want you to know that I needed to hear this. I've been doubting my voice and writing. Now I feel I have the strength to continue.
When I was younger I wanted to know all the answers to the questions and now in my later years, the answers are revealed as and when they are meant to be. I remember when my oldest child had to have major surgery as a 6 year old and the fear we felt about it as parents but it pales in comparison to your experience. Thank you for sharing this brave piece.
Your insight is so wise, Doreen! That the answers are revealed in their own time. Thank you.
Jeannie, thank you for sharing such a heartfelt essay. It’s a timely reminder to live today, and of life’s uncertainties. Sarah is beautiful and you are lucky to have each other.
I appreciate hearing that from you, Tiffany. I know you understand what this is like.