Fragile

I often think about how fragile life is....

Especially today... 11 years to the day that I lost my Dad.  His absence from our lives is a hole that will never be filled.  I think of him and miss him every day - even if it is for a fleeting moment.

And not only is life fragile.. but people are too.  




Each and everyone of us, in varying degrees.

Even the people who look robust - like they roll with the punches and just keep on doing what they have to do... are fragile somewhere.  


Which is why we need to take care of how we are around people.  

I am feeling fragile.  Like I may bend and snap if I'm pushed too hard.

I think it's OK to admit that -  

after years of not owning when I'm teetering close to the edge of darkness.

Something happened the other day that I can't shake from my head.


I was talking to someone and whilst we spoke.. this person I was with, turned away from me and spotted a girl by the bus stop.. 

The girl was a 'Goth'.. all black hair, eye make-up and big boots.  

"Look at the state of that'" said the person I was talking to and started laughing as if she'd seen some amazing spectacle. 

That comment sent my head spinning.  Why did it need to be said or thought?

Who says that the 'state' she was pointing at deserved ridicule or judgement.  There is no rhyme or reason.  

Don't we all have enough worries about ourselves.. without needing to deflect it onto others?

Can we think before we comment on those with less or more.. 

those who are prettier or uglier..

Those who are physically or mentally ill?


I've certainly become very mindful of this.  Life is hard.  Period.  
Does it need to be made any harder?

I've met and worked with many people over the years who were fragile and in need care and attention.  Some people I have encountered, I often wondered how they managed to see the end of the day.. never mind gather the strength to make it to the end of the week.

Yet many who suffer with illness (physical or mental) have far more tolerance, understanding and compassion for others - as a result of their own issues making everything so crystal clear.


Illness throws a great light of perspective on what is important and what is not.

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Francesca Woodman, the young lady who took the photographs above - commit suicide because of illness and fragility.  An article about her is written here.. if you fancy knowing more about this talented young woman have a peek.

I'm not on here to bring people down.. or preach or anything like that.  I know how easy it is to be harsh.. I've done it many times.

But those words that came from the person I was standing with the other day..struck me like a bolt to my heart.  

They were undeserved.  Unnecessary.   The young woman... The 'goth' girl is someone's daughter.. someone's friend...

But most importantly -  A person.  Deserved of respect or at least.. not having to suffer comments of others.

I hope I am not sounding too melancholy.. far from it.. I'm just thoughtful today.

I am very aware right now that people need kindness.. everyone.  

Including ourselves.

Be kind to yourselves this week lovely blog readers.  
You're a miracle you know.

Michelle 

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