More Gratitude

Thich Nhat Hahn wrote, A real love letter is made of insight, understanding, and compassion. Otherwise it is not a love letter.

I took the plunge this afternoon and shared my blog link on Facebook. At first, I rather feared the response, but it was the fear that propelled me forward. So what if people were grossed out? I gave them ample warning about the nature of this blog, it was their choice to follow the link. So what if others jeered? It is more sad that they lack empathy. So what if some considered my actions inappropriate? I can only be true to myself.

When I told DH I was starting a blog (another one! I already have two, plus several other sites) he grinned and said that such a response was so me. And it is. For the first time in my life, I have never found it so easy to write. But I still think about the trolls who flame, the indignantly repulsed who feel they need to teach me a lesson, and the lurkers who jeer.

But I don’t fear them anymore. Since putting my link on Facebook, I have had so many responses from friends who have gone through the same thing or similar. I’m humbled and so moved to have received these love letters (because that’s absolutely what they are). One of these messages could undo ten trolls’ meanness.

The overwhelming message I have got is that I am not alone. Even if you (yes, you, the person reading this right now) feel horribly alone and filled with despair, try opening up to someone. You just don’t know what love and company you might find yourself in.