ABOUT BEING HUMAN

 

My friend, Charmaine, posted this to her page last week and it jumped out at me. I have been thinking about this very topic and making notes on it daily,

This past week was not an easy one for me because I was sick. I took 2 Covid tests and both were negative so I guess I just had a bad cold, cough, headache, body aches and fever. Thanks to those who cared for me during this time with daily phone calls and food. I made it through and today I feel okay. 

When I am in a low spot or a state of overwhelm, what I need most is loving-kindness, care and compassion, a helping hand. It soothes my heart and is calming to my nervous system to know someone is there who cares, and I am not alone.  

We are humans and we need human touch and human care. We need to hear words that matter and feel compassion coming from others. Sometimes we need to be touched or held. Most of all we need to be seen wherever we are and in whatever state we are in at the moment. 

Love, care and compassion are all verbs!!  They demand action if they are going to have any meaning, It is too easy to say, "I'm praying for you" or "Just take a deep breath" or "Please just chill out," don't be silly," or worst of all, "OMG, what's the matter with you?"

These are platitudes and can sound hollow and empty to someone who is in pain, whether it be physical, emotional or psychological.  

It demands action to be there for each other. When we are there for each other our responses are "human" centered. For instance, "I am sorry you are having to go through that."

"I am here for you."

"What can I do for you?"

"What do you need from me?"

"How can I help you?"

"I hear you."

Once care and comfort are offered and the person is feeling safer, then "I am praying for you," and "take a deep breath," can be heard.

Save the platitudes for another time. Offer humanity first.

Benevolent gestures of love, understanding and compassion let others know they are not alone, because we are there for them. This is humanity at its best. Being there for each other. 

Caring, nurturing and holding a space for others to feel safe in whatever they are going through at that time is the ultimate gift of love. This is what being present to others is about.