According to my father, I am one sick puppy. Over the past year, every time I pay (anywhere from $100-$600) to compete in an endurance race, he chuckles a bit and tells me that I’m one sick puppy to actually pay to be in pain. Yesterday, however, I was a whole other version of sick puppy, I was actually sick.
Being sick is a guaranteed way to reawaken your appreciation for health and living, but what really makes sickness bearable is the outpouring of love that one receives while under the weather. Yesterday, during the twelve hours I spent in bed doubled over from spasms, the pain started to dissipate once I knew I wasn’t alone. Once my roommates got home, checked in on me periodically and brought me fluids, I wasn’t as overwhelmed by the pain of the spasms. I felt reassured that if I needed to go to the ER, I would have someone to take me; but more importantly, I no longer had to suffer in my pain alone.
There is great comfort found in the compassion expressed when suffering of any kind is shared. It is cathartic to cry with someone, to share your hurt with others, and to express whatever is making you suffer. We are made to help one another. Never underestimate the small acts and kind words you share with someone; for those small things from a few people who care about me were exactly what got me through the day yesterday and I could not be more thankful.
Love others today and pour kindness onto those who are suffering in any capacity. In doing so, you will bring more light into this world.