“Every man has his secret sorrows, which the world knows not, and often times we call a man cold, when he is only sad.”
– Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
When we’re on the outside looking in, we can form a perception that isn’t very accurate. We might judge people as being unfriendly, when if the truth be known, they often are just shy or maybe struggling with some unshared sorrow.
What do we gain by rushing to judgement? We don’t know others’ realities, unless they feel safe enough to share their truths.
We need to extend an attitude of acceptance to all we come in contact with, unless they prove themselves undeserving. If we began to treat each other with gentleness, the loneliness and sorrow that so many feel would be greatly diminished.
People have an innate need to feel loved, cared about, and accepted! This is particularly true when they’re sad, confused, or afraid.
Create a circle of kindness around you! You never know when you might be extending a lifeline of caring to someone, just when its needed the most!
Until next time,
Linda