And yet we deeply mourn childhood, the time when most could cry and not be ridiculed. We bemoan how easy those days were, and then turn around and scoff at anyone who dares bring that level of gentleness and loyalty into adulthood. It’s too childish, we say. As if careful consideration of others’ feelings is something that needs to be killed by the time you’re old enough to do taxes. We can’t coddle people, is one of the mottos-life isn’t fair, and everyone has to get used to it.
It’s true that life isn’t fair. But people can be. Or at least try. That would be much more valuable than being a productive member of society; than clocking in on time and being “successful”. We don’t have to break our backs taking care of everyone around us. But if we stop dismissing pain, we can all heal better.
I’m fine with being thought of as childish, selfish, clingy. I just wish I was sick enough that someone might actually see the truth. Maybe then I wouldn’t be stuck fantasizing about finger kisses and shoulders to cry on.
23