Saturday, March 01, 2008

Bleeding Heart

I cry a lot.

Some people bury their feelings - I embrace them. There is something so genuine and cathartic about experiencing pure, unadulterated emotion. Like most people, I bask in the tingling warmth of joy, but I have to say it's pain and sadness that most remind me of my humanity.

To the rest of the world, I present a picture of contentment. Most people would assume I am happy with the circumstances of my life, but I pin my disposition on something else - an acute awareness of how fragile life is.

I'll admit it - I've shed my fair share of tears after seeing commercials shilled by Corporate America, but by in large my sensitivity is stirred by thought.

Sometimes a memory will flash through my brain, other times its a realization - a strong sense of love for my family, an appreciation for my life and its gifts, a moment of empathy.

Whatever it is, I'll take that feeling and suck on it like a sugar cube, wanting to prolong the experience.

And I think that's one of humanity's greatest gifts - the ability to feel.

These profound sensations, I guess they give me some perspective on life - and that's what keeps me going.

I wish more people took the time to consider the emotional path traveled by other individuals. Some of us are walking wounded - carrying inside the disappointment of diminished dreams or the anguish of exquisite heartbreak. Other souls are full of vengeful anger.

It is only with care, patience and understanding that we can begin to overcome the emotional obstacles that get in the way of sharing kindness.

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