Words from my heart
Some people live their lives in the Land of Clichés and Memes. What are they you ask? Well, a cliché is a phrase or opinion that is overused and betrays a lack of original thought and a meme (rhymes with team) is a humorous or thought provoking image, video, piece of text, etc. that is copied (often with slight variations) and spread rapidly by Internet users.
One thing to note…technically all clichés are memes but not all memes are clichés.
I have noticed a trend in people using phrases when talking about multiple sclerosis. Words that once were amazing, but have become so common that they no longer provide the strength they originally carried. Things like:
It could be worse.
Time heals all wounds.
Everything happens for a reason.
Personally, when I’m feeling bad and having a terrible time with MS, I’m not comforted with statements like: I have MS but MS doesn’t have me. That is one phrase that has become so overused that I don’t even listen to the person sharing it. It’s not comforting to me. It was cute the first time I heard it, but now that it has been so overused and worn out, it gives no benefit to my life.
The reality is…sometimes, MS does have me. Sometimes, I have really crappy days. Don’t get me wrong, I totally believe in staying on the positive side of things and looking for the good in any tragic situation, but there are times when I need space to think and grieve, and to decide for myself how I want to move forward. I don’t need words carelessly tossed out as a solution by someone who’s not even listening to the words they are throwing out.
Seriously, if you’ve ever shared a cliché or meme in response to someone dealing with a relapse or sitting in the hospital awaiting test results because you want to bring comfort to them, I urge you to never do it again. Why? Because in a moment of tears, they need time to process the chaos and would get more benefit out of a hug than a worn out set of stale words.
Why not just use your own words? The best thing anyone could say when times are at their worst are words from the heart. And for many, saying nothing at all, simply being there is all a person needs. Standing with them in the pain and holding them up when they have no more strength left to stand on their own… that does more than worn out words.
Instead of quoting from something you’ve heard over and over again, thoughtfully put together your own words filled with care, understanding, sincerity, and lots and lots of love. That’s what brings comfort. That’s what helps bring smiles to a face covered in tears. Well, that and maybe a joke or two to break the moment with a laugh…and some chocolate. Chocolate always helps.
1. Simplify your life.
For me those words were never amazing.
There are days when MS has me hard.
I’m not a warrior. Too combative.
I do the best I can with what I have.
Thank you for being honest. I so agree.
Penelope you always say the right words for me… 🙂 🙂
I’m struggling to come up something good for you!!! Hugs your way… 🙂
Thank you Tiffany. Much appreciated. Sending hugs back to you. xoxo
I cringe sometimes when I hear “I have MS it doesn’t have me”
I get it. Hugs xoxo
When I read your words, Penelope, I think positively. I now have learnt to ignore people who have got no idea of what I go through. sad for them. Thank you big hugs to you too.
Definitely sad for them. Hugs to you. Thanks for stopping by to share your heart. Much appreciated. xoxo
So agree! Sometimes nothing is needed. SILENCE IS GOLDEN
A hug.
And yes MS DOES have me