Every Scar Tells A Story

From every wound there is a scar, and every scar tells a story.  A story that says, "I survived."

Author Unknown

I saw this on Facebook today and even though I have read this and similar sayings before, it really spoke to me today.  Every one of us have scars.  We have all been wounded.  We all have stories.  Chances are, we all have numerous stories. 

Some scars are visible to everyone that see them, like the American soldier injured in a blast who was badly burned or lost a limb.  Their wound will scar.  Their scar will tell their story of their selfless act of heroism.  They can't hide it.

Then there is the person who has gone through cancer or had other health issues.  Their scars are not visible to everyone.  Only those closest to them know of the scars and the stories they tell.

Finally, we have all those people whose wounds are not visible to anyone.  The scars can't be seen by the human eye.  The pain that these wounds cause is the only outward sign that they even exist.  But it doesn't make the wounds any less real.  It does not make it any easier to heal.  As a matter of fact, these wounds can be the most dangerous of all.  Why?  Because those who are suffering often do not let anyone else see what they are going through.  Whether it be from embarrassment, shame, fear or some other reason, they suffer alone.  These wounds take a very long time to heal leaving behind invisible scars that impact that person's life forever.  Sometimes their stories get told and true healing can help lighten some of the scars.  But often times, the stories never get told leaving that person to wonder... "what if".

Everyone has scars.  Everyone has stories.  You will be hearing the stories behind some of my scars in future blogs.  Please feel free to share the stories behind YOUR scars as well.  Together may we find healing and happiness.

Until tomorrow......

Copyright 2012 by Betty Williams