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Carol, I understand. I really do.
My daughter has been through terrible things. And because she is strong others–even members of our own family–blithely brush off her troubles. But she has been more deeply hurt than all of them together. I ache for her.
You are in my heart, my friend.
That’s the thing about you, Diane. I can always count on you actually seeing me. xo
I’m with you on this having been described as strong for most of my life. I’m tall too, which adds to the impression of strength.
Yes, and you have been called on to bear some weight that others do not have to carry. I see you, Kathleen.
Carol, I admit, you do seem like someone who can handle a lot. You seem so strong and capable. But you’re also human. We all have to learn when to put that burden down.
Yes, that’s the thing. Only human.
Short and powerful. That’s what I love about this piece. Thank you so much for sharing. We have a lot in common. Having raised four kids by myself, I’ve often had to “look like” the strong one. But only our insomnia knows what really goes through our minds.
Oh, honey. I feel ya. I do. That insomnia.
Sometimes those who look like they can handle a lot, just need a friendly check-in. Mind you…I am not that person who can carry a heavy load. You seem like you are. You OK? <3
I’m ok, thanks for asking. Losing Rena was a shock and other friends having health problems. It’s tough…but it’s life.
Well said, I feel the same. My emotions are all over the place, and not in a good way.
A sign of the times, Susan.
Yes, my family relies on me to be a leader, but at times, I need help, too.
Yes, I think it is important for us to show that. to say it.
I have always been seen as the “strong” one who can carry it all. Years ago, my father had an operation that left him unable to walk. He was bright and cheery with everyone except me. I walked into the room, and my father, could no longer contain his anguish. He asked me, his youngest child, for a knife so he could kill himself. I didn’t stay very long, and luckily, a new priest from our Episcopal church came along and cried with him. It was exactly what he needed. He hadn’t cried yet. But that was a hard burden for me to carry, to know that he was thinking of killing himself.
No greater proof that he saw you as the one who could hold this info. I am so sorry, that had to be so difficult. Horrifically so.