Wit and Wisdom: No One Wants to Be ‘The Only One’

Quite a number of years ago, I recommended a book to a client of mine, thinking it would be helpful to her.

When she came back for her next appointment, I asked her what she thought about the book.

Pulling it out of her purse, she said, “You know what the most helpful thing about this book was?”

I hadn’t a clue and said so.

“It’s what’s on the front cover.” Pointing, she explained, “Right here it says, ‘over three million copies sold.’ It’s a relief to know I’m not the only one who struggles with this problem.”

Isn’t that what we all want, to feel included with others, even if that connection is the result of shared pain and problems?

I think the reason we’re reluctant to share our troubles with others is because we’re afraid of being judged, that others won’t understand, that they might say unkind things about us or those we love. Unfortunately, by holding our hurt in we increase the feelings of shame and despair and aloneness.

Many times I’ve said, “If we knew the number of people around us each day who are so weighed down with troubles that just making it through the day is a struggle, we would be much kinder, gentler, and more forgiving people.”

I’m asking you to do that just for today.

Be kinder.

Be gentler.

Be more forgiving.

Somebody needs that from you.

* Taken from The Wit and Wisdom of David Johnson, Volume III: A Harrowing Halloween Tale