Pain and Power

They never opened up like this before.

Why wouldn’t they talk to me?

Or ask someone for help?

I could help them.

Where did this pain come from?

How are they able to talk about it in front of all these people?

Lucky me because I don’t feel like they do.

But wait, wasn’t I just thinking that this morning?

Didn’t I feel like that after my last exam?

No, I can’t feel depressed because I’m a happy kid.

Right?

But why is this pain so familiar?

I need to be a man.

But isn’t he telling his story up there?

Why don’t I?

Good thing her friend is here to wipe her tears.

Who will wipe mine?

When was the last time I cried?

You’re not allowed to cry.

You’re not a pussy right?

Why do I think that would make me a pussy?

No one will care anyway.

Who wants to see a 6’4” man cry?

Men aren’t supposed to have feelings right?

I can’t stand this anymore.

Wait, where are my legs taking me?

What am I going to say?

They are all smiling.

Is this OK?

Will they laugh at me?

Do it.

Can they see the tears in my eyes?

Can they hear my heart beating?

I will.

Why am I not scared anymore?

Why am I going to share my pain?

Because I need to.

I don’t need to question myself anymore.

These people, friends and strangers, have shared their pain with me.

They shared to give me the power to share too.

The power to embrace and overcome my pain.

I see that now.

No person is too big or too old or too tough to feel.

It’s the feelings that make us brave.

It’s the feelings that give us … power.

 

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