Edward Fischer writes in Notre Dame Magazine (February, 1983), that a
leper in Fiji (or, more correctly, a sufferer of Hansen's Disease)
followed the leading of his twisted hands. He became an internationally
known artist. "My sickness I see as a gift of God leading me to my
life's work," he said. "If it had not been for my sickness, none of
these things would have happened."
As a young girl, Jessamyn West
had tuberculosis. She was so sick that she was sent away to die. During
that time she developed her skill as a writer and authored numerous
novels in her lifetime.
That great author Flannery O'Connor
suffered various ailments -- lupus struck her at 25 and she walked only
with the aid of crutches for the final fourteen years of her life. She
noted, however, that this illness narrowed her activities in such a way
that she had time for the real work of her life, which was writing.
Some people succeed in spite of handicaps. Others succeed because of
them. I am not telling you anything new when I say that our problems
help to make us what we are. Those who suffer often learn the value of
compassion. Those who struggle often learn perseverance. And those who
fall down often teach others how to rise again. Our troubles can shape
us in ways a carefree existence cannot.
A story is told of an
Eastern village that, through the centuries, was known for its exquisite
pottery. Especially striking were its urns; high as tables, wide as
chairs, they were admired throughout the country for their strong form
and delicate beauty.
Legend has it that when each urn was
apparently finished, there was one final step. The artist broke it -- and
then put it back together with gold filigree. An ordinary urn was thus
transformed into a priceless work of art. What seemed finished wasn't,
until it was broken.
So it is with people. Broken by hardships,
disappointments and tragedy, they can become discouraged and cynical.
But lives can also be mended. Put back together well, they won't be just
like they were before. Damaged pieces reassembled with a golden bonding
of patience and love will help form a person into an exquisite
masterpiece. It is as if people have to be broken before they can become
whole and complete.
If you feel broken remember this -- you are a
work of art. As a work of art, you may never be finished, but that is
the process of a lifetime. And your very brokenness serves a purpose.
Remember this, too: Every time you decide to mend, you become a
little more complete. And a little more beautiful.
Steve Goodier Life Support
http://www.LifeSupportSystem.com
