Pain-

Pain-
Pain, A feeling we try so hard to avoid. Push down, ignore and pretend it is not there.
When did being hurt become a sign of weakness?
When did pain cause us to be a victim? When did pain start being hidden and not worn as a testament to strength?
We are applauded when we get up after falling. When we try again, though emotionally, no one sees us fall, and we are often too scared to get back up. Rarely is there an applaud for trying again, just cushioned the road ahead is hard, you saw how hard, might as well stay safe. I have been hurt by friends as much as lovers in my lifetime; that’s not a one-way street. No one is perfect.

Often we talk about pain in physical terms of working out; no pain, no gain, rings true in a gym.

The pain my body goes through trying to keep up with friends in the mountains is not something I hide or avoid. I push through, and it takes me to incredible places, each more profound than the prior.
Until the pain is no longer pain, just part of the adventure, something to be shared with the group, an experience that unites us on our quest for pretty places.

With this perspective, the pain in my heart is just a part of becoming stronger and more confident in myself.
Growing and learning who I am and who others are, on an adventure of the soul, learning the landscapes inside the heart.
I get the opportunity to share my adventure with others, the pain of climbing mountains, and the joy. I get to share the pain and joy in my heart with others.

I do not wish to avoid the pain that my heart has, past or future, as I know I’m strong enough to keep going, head high. As facing those mountains, the ones inside have helped me become the friend I needed, and somehow I got to be the friend they needed.

And like the mountains, it does not hurt much anymore; it’s just part of the adventure. One made worthwhile by the people in it.

I will wear my pain with pride, like the mountains I have hiked.
I will face my fears inside like I face my fears outside.
Fear of failure, inadequacy, rejection.
Every friendship I have is just like the mountains I climb.
I had to bring the best of me to get the quality of you.