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We are Made for Human Connection

There are words from Brandi Carlile’s song, “The Story,” that I might sing, and perhaps you, too.

“All of these lines across my face
Tell you the story of who I am
So many stories of where I've been
And how I got to where I am
But these stories don't mean anything
When you've got no one to tell them to”
You don’t have to be single or alone to feel the depth of those words. Someone in a longtime marriage or relationship might feel them, too.
The voyage through life takes each one of us through an assortment of experiences. Some of them ennoble us. Some crush us. Some lift us beyond ourselves and carry us into the lives of those who need us. And some carry us to those we need.
Some experiences are burdens. Others ease and encourage us. Some leave us baffled and unsure. Some build confidence within us and are so affirming that we grow in substance, in courage, in tenderness, and sympathy.
As we age, the lines in our faces can represent the hurts we have not yet resolved. Or they may be the signs of so many smiles, so much laughter, carved by the joys from our journey.
In all, our faces tell their own stories of who we are and where we have been. Not every secret is unveiled there. Not every wound in the soul is seen. But often, enough is revealed to give a glimpse into how we got to where we are. We may attempt to mask far down, severe feelings, but eventually they come to the surface to be exposed.
I think it may be easier to unmask our story honestly if we have someone to share it with. Someone who has been in the experiences with us.
The ancient mystics wrote, “For a moment at least, be a smile on someone else’s face.”
Perhaps a spouse or partner or lover can help us do that. Alone, our life experiences can still bring us insights, wisdom, and depth. Enough to help others smile.
But alone may also leave us isolated in our griefs and unaccompanied in our cheer.
We were made for human connection. And wherever and with whomever we find it, the voyage is better understood and our story is more valued.
At least that is what I hope.
As Brandi sings, “But these stories don't mean anything
When you've got no one to tell them to
It's true, I was made for you”
© 2021 Timothy Moody

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