The value of a story from a compassionate daughter
The value of a story from a compassionate daughter
Why do we hold our stories so close to the heart? We clench them so tightly to the chest. Our stories are meant to be given away, written about, told and given voice to. Others can hear something in your story and make sense of something and apply it to their lives, or if not that, the power of the story loses its power when we tell it. There’s a bigger and better life out there than the story in your mind. I’ve always used the written word as my tool to communicate. I decided that now is the right time to share mine. In light of recent events with powerful men such as Bill Gates in the news for his affairs I felt I couldn’t be silent.
On October 20, 2019 after attending a church service where Job was the topic discussed and just after telling my husband I was glad nothing bad like that had ever happened to me, I was made aware that my father had lived a double life in another country for decades. The devastation and heartbreak were piercing. We all suffer disappointment but to have the disappointment be a parent who I trusted was devastating.
Somewhere along the process love steps in at the weirdest of times. I heard a quote by Kim eng one day “people love from their level of consciousness .” I believe that’s what Jesus meant when he said “forgive them because they know not what they do.” Not everyone is conscious spiritually. Compassion is not for a select few. It is for all. In amongst the heartbreak is also a steady river of compassion. None of us are perfect and without flaw.
Forgiveness is not a steady line. For those struggling with forgiveness it’s ok if it’s as bumpy a ride as a drive down a dirt road in the country. Take one small step at a time and you will get there. In the process of forgiveness there may be a coming back together or there may not be. Be gentle and patient with yourself. You can always hold that place of love no matter how it looks. I give so much love to those people who have been affected by those closest to them making hurtful decisions. When the truth is not pretty and then having to rebuild a new picture. There will come a day where it will be sunny again, hold on.
As a wedding calligrapher I still believe in the power of love. Things happen but everyday there is still love constantly happening. My career reminds me of this. I love designing art for couples in their happiest of times. I am so fortunate to have so much love surrounding me in my own marriage, my church, and my precious friends. No one going through trials does it alone. Go out and tell your story and listen intently to others stories.
Picture: a sunny day in 1987
