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Tuesday 12 June 2012

Sticks and stones



I didn't really see it coming at first. It arrived like a bolt out of the blue. The thing that first registered was the dull thud as the fist slammed into my face. Shockwaves suddenly rushed around my body like a fiery electrical storm. Adrenaline began to pump as I held back the tears. They would not get to see them today, they didn't deserve them. And so I fought them back harder than I had ever done before. Names continued to fly at me and echoed around my mind. Upon seeing our teacher striding across the school playground, the bullies fled and I suddenly found myself standing alone once again; saved by the dinner bell.
Growing up, we are all told about sticks and stones, but the part about names never hurting us has never quite rung true. I, like most people on this planet, know that they can absolutely hurt...deeply.
Sometimes people can say wounding things. Sometimes they sting momentarily and sometimes, the effects can last a lifetime.
But underneath everything, when someone throws something hurtful our way, it is never really about us to begin with. They always reveal much more about the other person and once we realise this, it makes it easier for us to forgive and move on.
So when you think you're not special enough or good looking enough or clever enough or thin enough, I am here to tell you that you are! You are perfectly amazing just the way you are and there is not a single person on this entire planet that is identical to you. No one!

6 comments:

  1. I never could wrap my brain around the idea that "names can never hurt me." I wish all kids (and adults) could truly absorb your words of wisdom and advice.

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  2. I know, it always seemed very far-fetched to me. You have to be in a place of total enlightenment to not be even slightly touched by that. Maybe one day... Ahh, thanks Mitch. The thing that amazes me is how similar we all are on this planet as well as being totally unique :-)

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  3. Funny, when you look back to these incidents, you just know that what drove the bullies to it was a profound dislike for themselves. The first person you hurt with anger is yourself, then you lash out. It was all brewing inside first.

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  4. I totally agree with you, and also insecurity plays a part too. Goes to show the importance of loving oneself :-)

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  5. (((HUGS))) to you, Jeff, because in this post you sound like you need them.

    -Dean

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  6. Thanks Dean. Hugs are always nice to receive :-)

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