Sharing Hurts

I wish I could do something about the hurts that others experience.

I'd love to take a person's frustrations, worries, and anger and do something about it, but I can't. There's no magic formula that's going to make this stuff go away any more than a similar mystical aura or potion can take away mine. It took a lot of years for me to get this way and chances are it's going to take that many and a lot more to get it all resolved. We're all in the same corner.

I can share in the pain that my friends go through, though. It happened just a while ago.

I was reading over a friend's blog and picked up on the sense of emptiness and frustration he's experienced over the past few years; actually his whole life. I'll call this person Mark.

It's been a rough go for Mark. He's been tossed to the dogs on issues that none of us should have to face, but those choices weren't his and were the consequence of decisions that other people made. Okay, such is life, I know, and it seems to be more and more what our culture is about - someone suffering for the mistakes others make. I could get on a soapbox about this one for quite some time, but I'm going to spare you the irony. I just plain hurt for Mark and want to tell him a few things:

1. The stuff located on either side of the road you're on is not your fault - please don't blame yourself. God created you for a reason and He loves you just the way you are (sorry, Billy Joel, the words just sort of fit in here).

2. Lots of folks love you and see something special in you. I see a person who is sensitive to his feelings, the feelings of others. You express emotions in line and verse and share your heart freely. You make yourself an open book. I like that kind of transparency.

3. Things are going to turn around for you, believe that. Don't convince yourself that because your portion in some ways so far hasn't been all that affirming that it's always going to stay that way. I see God turning your situation around. Put the timetable away and let the train run down the track, and be ready to board when it stops.

4. Go somewhere and tell God how you feel - yes, He cares. Cry awhile. The tears wash not only your eyes, but your understanding as well.

I can't change your life, but God already has. I want to be there for the rebound. For now, let me share your hurt.