YOUR PAIN CAN HEAL

One of the things that Margie and I enjoy doing during the warm weather is visiting different markets. This Sunday, we were at a local farmer’s market and came across a stand we had not seen before. In addition to the offerings this lady was selling, we also were gifted a truly special story. One that I think can benefit us all by a gentle reminder.

At this stand there were two very distinct, and very different items. She was selling specialty dog treats in the shape of human food and crystal decor. As I was letting this bounce around in my head, I just had to ask how she came to be selling such different items at the same stand. The answer was not what I expected, but it might just be what we all need. She explained she had been selling the dog treats for quite some time. Recently, however, she lost her son to suicide. When that happened she began making the crystal decorations as a sort of therapy to help her deal with the pain of her loss. Eventually, a friend of her noticed that her house was starting to fill up and mentioned maybe she should stop.

Not interested in quitting a new-found passion, she decided to add them to her stand where she sold her dog treats. This is where the story takes a decided healing turn. A lady stopped by who had also lost her son to suicide. Sharing that each crystal featured angel wings in honor of the son she lost and some even featured something that said, “A piece of my heart is in heaven.” This was just the memory that the other lady was looking for. This transaction helped bring peace and healing to both ladies. In addition, but selling pieces of art that honor her lost son, it is bringing a little bit of peace to the hearts of everyone who purchases one.

This woman took what might be the most painful event that anyone could experience, and used it to create something that would be bring joy to others, and in the process also brought healing to a person who had experienced the same pain she had. When we share our pain with others, we transmute it into something that will help heal others as well. Pain is something none of us want to experience, but it is also a gift that allows us to help others heal. By sharing our pain, we help ourselves heal as well. This lady’s story brought a powerful reminder to Margie and I about the beauty behind many of the works of art people share. It is also a good reminder to spend time getting to know others by asking about their stories. When we share with each other, we all come out ahead.