Monday, September 22, 2014

COMPASSION

I just went for my first session of physical therapy.  I was told by many to be prepared because therapy hurts.  It did not.  She massaged my hand and it actually felt good, and later, with her many exercises, gave me a sense that my hand, eventually, would be able to do again what artists do.  Like all of us do.  Use our hands for so many things.  The incredible power of hands: the tools of our brain. The pain came later as I tried some of her "homework" but pain was something I had come to accept as a way of life since the accident.

It happened so quickly, close to home, as I sat next to my husband who was driving my car.  The next thing I knew, was coming to the reality of many cars, ambulances, police and a medic asking me how I felt ... I was absently looking in front of me and seeing double and trying to figure out what had happened. 
I came fast to the realization that we had crashed. A bad crash. My car was totaled. I felt numb. Pain came later as the shock wore out.

When released from the hospital after a few days of examinations, x-rays, CT scans, and the soothing presence of my daughter and a friend as I drifted in and out of sleep, I realized my total dependency and total vulnerability.  I was frightened to look at myself in the mirror.  My whole body was covered with black and blue marks, the right side of my face was scratched, lacerated and bruised; I had a concussion, my right hand was in a cast and my left thumb in a splint. Later my right thumb was operated on.  Despite having injured his back and hands, my husband was doing everything. He cooked, fed me, did the dishes, gave me a shower, drove me to the doctor, took care of the lawn and garden, watered plants, was busy most hours of the day despite having to go himself for physical therapy for his back.  I felt useless, devastated.  I had always been independent and my sudden utter state of absolute dependency drove me to a state of great sadness.

I went to doctors, and stayed home and read. Books accumulated.  They took me to places and events where my mind wandered and roamed.  I wanted to be cocooned, protected, safe. I stayed home. Friends and family came, sent cards, gifts, cooked for me, told me that being so limited in my movements  gave me a break, that it was normal that my husband took care of me, that I would do the same if I was in his place. None of it registered. I had a great sense that the accident with its immense shock kicked a part of me somewhere and It got lost.

But as people came to visit they told me about what had happened also to them.  I began to realize that most of us carry our own wounds.  A neighbor showed me her hands where she was missing two parts of her fingers. I had never noticed! Yet she did everything with her hands. She became emblematic for all the human beings who talked to me relating their accidents or their losses or hurts.  I was humbled listening to all of their  heart wrenching stories. The chaos in their lives. Being wounded triggered others to tell me how they had overcome their own pains or how they were still in the grip of so much sorrow.

We humans are fragile and are creatures that live with darkness and light, pain and joy.  A life is a trajectory of many great events and others that torture our soul.  It is hard to be human and avoid such a pattern.  I came to think that a state of utter vulnerability and pain opens the door for others to share the terrible obstacles that they had to face.  In many ways it connects us.  It creates the link where we share of our humanness and fragility.

Perhaps the greatest joy is this immense compassion that awakes sometimes in our heart and helps to bring the understanding that each of us has been through some ordeal and becomes a better being--so we hope.

Now after three months my body and hands are healing.  It will be awhile before I can grab my tools and crayons or brushes and feel totally me.  But I am on my way and much is added to my feeling of humanity and community and while the pain is still with me, I can see the light ahead.

Copyright Micheline Brierre 2014


29 comments:

  1. written on my Facebook page:
    Johanna Cellucci
    Touchingly written...thanks for sharing your experiences, thoughts and positive lessons!

    ReplyDelete
  2. From my facebook page:

    Josseline Colimon Fethiere commented on your status.
    Josseline wrote: "I JUST READ IT MICHOU! GREAT SHARING! IN A FEW DAYS YOU WILL START USING YOU HAND! IN THE MEANTIME STAY CALM, COOL AND COLLECTED!!! BIG HUGS! THANK YOU TO BE AN EXAMPLE NOT ONLY FOR YOURS BUT ALSO FOR ALL OUR FRIENDS ! BISOUS!"

    ReplyDelete
  3. From my facebook page;
    Laurie Tintinger Oh Micheline Brierre,its been quite a journey for. I'm glad to be able to hear of your experiences. Life is precious.Bless you.

    ReplyDelete
  4. From my facebook page:
    Monique Blanchet Guyvarch So well written, Micheline. I didn't know you had an accident and I am sure you will recover soon. Just think it could have been much worse. Bon courage et bisous,

    ReplyDelete
  5. From my facebook page:

    Florence V Felton commented on your status.
    Florence V wrote: "read your blog . impressive. with those thoughts and all the help from friends and family ,you will recover well, and stronger than ever! from thisvery terrible and emotionally crushing accident . blessings...."

    ReplyDelete
  6. From my Facebook page:
    Oh Micheline, Such tender open thoughts. You open my heart to yours. Your love, compassion and vulnerability connect with the humanness of us all. we are one. So glad you are healing and climbing out of the dark hole. Much love! Deb Komitor.

    ReplyDelete
  7. As always, Micheline, you say it very well. If we live long enough we are all broken in some way; if not in bones then in spirit. However, it is how we bounce back that matters. How we put the broken pieces back together again in a way that will make us stronger than before. That's what matters and that is something that I am sure you will do. Charlie

    ReplyDelete
  8. from my Facebook page:

    Lee Jackson commented on your status.
    Lee wrote: "Beautiful friend~ you have artfully shared another chapter of your life in a way that will surely help others. Thank you for writing about it and we both wish you fast progress with your return to artistry."

    ReplyDelete
  9. from my Facebook page:

    Suzanna Quintana commented on your status.
    Suzanna wrote: "Lovely writing, Micheline. I am happy to hear you are doing much better and healing..."

    ReplyDelete
  10. From my facebook page:
    Laura Hulst commented on your status.
    Laura wrote: "I have always been inspired by your art, and now I see I'm also inspired by your spirit. Be whole again..."

    ReplyDelete
  11. I am happy to see that you are on the way to recovery. It was good to read your blog again. "Compassion" is very well written and what emanates from it, is healing in one way or another. You will soon be back to your normal self.

    Love you, Michou,

    Gerda

    ReplyDelete
  12. Don't Know Anything About Business? Read This Book And Nd10x Review It! https://www.reviewengin.com/nd10x-review/

    ReplyDelete
  13. The chasers are fearless innovators who are eager to test any new platform, media type, or strategy—and the keepers of the status quo are methodical budget managers who have proven tactics and processes on lockdown. The methods and techniques used for online marketing include email, social media, display advertising, search engine optimization, Google AdWords and more. If you're already suffering from overspending on other digital marketing, email marketing is one of the most affordable methods out there. Jeff Bezos understands the value of emails and has been known to read through customer complaints It's also why more than 35% of all product sales come from recommendations (both via email and on screen). With an effective email marketing software, you can maintain email lists that are segregated based on several factors, including customers' likes and dislikes, and spending habits. Businesses will clearly be able to sell more things to people who are open to be sold to, but the issue with permission marketing is one of scalability. https://www.reviewengin.com/5-best-online-marketing-tactic-with-no-or-very-minimal-expenses-in-2019/

    ReplyDelete
  14. Niche Profit Fast Track Awards: 8 Reasons Why They Don't Work & What You Can Do About It https://www.reviewengin.com/niche-profit-fast-track-review/

    ReplyDelete
  15. Nutra Mini - Whatever the reason, I was so happy. We don't have a few stuff to work out. You would sense that they had a never ending supply. It would be easy to ignore your questions, but hear me out. I'll tell you more as that concerns Control X Keto Weight Loss but it isn't a priority. Most fans don't know where to begin when it's in the same class as Weight Loss. I feel like a thousand bucks. This is standard procedure.

    Keto Go Fit
    Drone Xtreme
    Ultraboost Wifi
    Toxifort
    Control X Keto Reviews
    Control X Keto Diet
    Keto Go Fit Diet
    Keto Go Fit Reviews

    ReplyDelete
  16. What Is Forex Trading? Find Out Here!

    A Forex Duality Review By Tradeology is something that a lot of Forex Traders are waiting for these days. Commercial and investment banks can be considered as the foundation of the forex markets; they are the liquidity providers. Nicola Delic will explain the different indicators and what makes them so important. There is always something that can impact the FX markets more than macroeconomic indicators, press conferences of central banks, or speeches by their governors. This includes trading hours, trade entries, trade exits, stop loss and take profit levels, indicators to use, as well as how to deal with economic news releases.

    TD Ameritrade is the only other firm that can beat the $2.00 minimum, by charging a $1.00 minimum on all foreign currency trades. Moreover, members will not just pick up how to accurately use ND10X, but they will also learn how the forex market works and how forex trading takes place. Choosing a lot size too big or opening more trades than your margin can support will be the death of most forex accounts. Tradeology trade marauder reviewit spares your chance profitably as you get alarms either in letterbox or various inbox.

    A swap is a daily charge or withdrawal from the deposit of a trader of money for the transfer of a position on open trades over the night. The core of the FX Market Code combines the power of momentum with crystal-clear trade entry signals that could result in you making even more money than you ever have trading. The staff at is here to help you achieve these goals, especially from a knowledge perspective, but determining if a trading regimen is right for you will come from hours of practice trading with virtual” cash and real time quotes on a free demo” account.

    When you buy into the system, you get this first of its kind Smart Trading Technology that makes it easier to trade these markets. Additionally, forex mini accounts give investors the same access to various forex tools, including trading platforms, charts, and more. That's the definition of what a forex trading strategy is. With all those strategies at my disposal, I think I could trade at all types of market (trending or ranging) and at high and low time frames and approach it at different angles. ND10X - a line of ClickBank products, does not give many details about its capabilities. https://www.reviewengin.com/infinite-profit-system-review/

    ReplyDelete
  17. That was gone quickly. Don't worry… There are the feelings which may determine the patterns to be followed in individual cases. Is that a good use of my Tech Products? Listed below are a couple of Tech Products things you may need.

    AOL support number
    powervolt energy saver

    ReplyDelete

  18. Your sarcasm is stunningly affordable. They have to locate the correct spare parts. I certainly have my fill of Tech Products. That is another sign of our times. That is going to be another banner year. Last autumn I was asked as this respects benefiting personally from Tech Products.



    PowerPro Energy Saver
    Mosquitron
    Buzz B Gone

    ReplyDelete
  19. If you have a specific product in mind, go ahead and check if they have an affiliate program on their website. In an affiliate marketing program you are basically the publisher and earn commissions whenever a visitor buys a product through your site. Most people do not understand affiliate marketing and how profitable it can be. With tools like Gumroad or Digital Product Delivery , you can easily set up affiliate program partners and allow them to collect commissions. If you want to cut out the marketing side of things, you may want to try a freelancer website like Genealogy Freelancers as an alternative to setting up an online platform yourself. NEW DELHI: India's fast-moving consumer goods companies - both big and small - that have for years built expansive distribution networks through kirana shops and supermarkets said the covid-19 lockdown has given a fillip to online sales as shoppers stuck at home turned to buying essentials on the internet.

    In addition, we include first-class lead generation programs in our Affiliate marketing services to improve your customer database and sales portfolio. The BlueSnap market contains over 100,000 digital products for you to promote. Promote your business far and wide - start by creating social media channels for your business, reach out to family and friends and past colleagues, attract leads through an email list, promote yourself on LinkedIn and even Twitter. Sometimes, affiliates have to go through an affiliate network to even be able to promote the product. Amazon pays approximately 60 days after the end of each month, whereas other non-Amazon programs have payout ranging from weekly to quarterly commission payments. We don't rely on a single affiliate marketing program for all our clients, but instead review each business carefully to create a unique program, resulting in high ROI for every client.
    https://www.reviewengin.com/simple-tips-to-starting-an-affiliate-marketing-online-business/

    ReplyDelete
  20. Inpatient treatment programs allow the person to receive rehab in a setting that is free from temptations and distractions. The medical team will develop an individualized treatment plan that will help the person overcome the physical and psychological effects of their substance use disorder. The plan will generally involve therapy and medication when appropriate.

    https://www.offerplox.com/iron-maxxx-male-enhancement/

    https://www.offerplox.com/regal-keto-reviews/
    https://www.offerplox.com/keto-burn-dx-reviews/
    https://www.offerplox.com/optimal-keto-gummies/
    https://www.supplementz.org/glucotrust-reviews/
    https://www.supplementz.org/organixx-cbd-gummies/
    https://www.supplementz.org/ultra-proven/
    https://www.supplementz.org/exipure-reviews/

    ReplyDelete
  21. The official launch date of Kibo Eclipse has been scheduled for 25 January 2022 at 12 pm ET. Because of the high anticipation and demanding requests from users, they decided to re-launch the program in three parts and an exclusive master class. However, for the pre-launch program and master class, you need to register your account on their official website. Using their proprietary tool, the team will identify a premium but generic domain name to suit your business and then purchase it for you. This program is helpful to any individuals who want to improve how their business functions with e-commerce tricks and tips. All customers are eligible for a refund within 30 days of purchase if they reach out to the customer service team.
    Components Of Kibo Eclipse
    That’s why Aidan Booth & Steve Clayton are confident that when you take action, follow through with the steps outlined in the Kibo Eclipse, and work at it; you will find success. I sincerely hope that this detailed kibo Eclipse review will help you make an informed decision before ordering it. So, please join now by using this link if you wish to get this system. Yes, if this system is not for you, you can request money back within 30 days. Keep in mind; they only accept a limited number of students each year. You can only purchase this system between January 25 to February 03.
    With exclusive training sessions, the Kibo Eclipse team teaches you how you can scale your e-commerce business into a 7-figure-making e-Commerce venture. The Kibo Converters is a multitude of tools developed by the Kibo Eclipse team that helps you convert your online store visitors into buyers who make you online profits. Kibo HQ is an operational tool that gives you instant access to apps that are worth $1000, for free. This can be of immense help when you are building your online store and looking for cheap paid traffic sources as well as free traffic sources. The Kibo Eclipse program is broken down into 8 modules to make the whole matter easily consumable by the students.
    You will have a pretty large selection of products, all of which convert well. We will also implement one of the many free traffic strategies to target potential buyers. You don’t have to deal with suppliers from overseas who can quite frankly throw a wrench in your plans. No need to spend time on getting permissions, reseller certificates or licenses. There is no need for you to spend weeks finding a niche and a so-called “hero” product.
    Kibo Converters
    You may even come across Kibo Eclipse customer reviews from individuals who have purportedly used the training program. Everyone from just starting out in e-commerce trade to experienced businessmen can benefit from the Kibo eclipse program, whether they have just started their journey or want to begin one. You will hear from many successful business owners and entrepreneurs how they generate such high revenues every year. They will tell you about how to generate the same results for your business. Overall, the above is just a few fractions of Kibo Eclipse reviews. Each Kibo Eclipse review gives you a sort of idea about how this program can be a game-changer when it comes to boosting the sales and profit of your eCommerce store.
    https://www.reviewengin.com/kibo-eclipse-review/

    ReplyDelete
  22. If you can partner with them and create a long-term relationship, making them ambassadors of your brand, the message they portray comes across as more trusted instead of promotional. It helps to boost your brand's credibility if you're seen as trusted by an influencer. Out of all the major social media platforms, Instagram has one of the youngest audiences. More than half of Instagram users are under 34 years old, with 31 percent falling in the age range. Because as Forbes revealed, millennials are the age group that is most likely to trust recommendations from people they know or opinions posted online.
    Influencer marketing is a way to quickly build brand awareness for your company. In the past, brands used celebrities to promote their products. Now, social media influencers are taking over and sharing brand messaging with their online followers. Jeff Foster is co-founder and CEO at Tomoson, the influencer marketplace. The platform allows bloggers and social media influencers to get paid for posting sponsored content, and lets businesses connect with targeted, niche audiences.
    Work with your influencers to understand what's been successful for them in the past and what gets their own audience excited. If you don't hear back within a week, consider commenting on their Instagram posts. Since influencers often check and respond to comments to interact with their audience members, they’ll likely see your comment. Aim to get a response from at least 50% of the creators you reach out to. According to our partners’ data, that’s a sign that you’ve found outreach-influencer fit, and you can begin scaling up. Maybe your language isn’t casual enough for the type of influencers you’re trying to reach, so you’re not getting responses. https://www.reviewengin.com/category/influencer-marketing/

    ReplyDelete
  23. Competitors are now focusing on the negative aspects of their Diet Pills. Life could be hard when you do it that way. Don't lose your mind. It's actually worth taking the time to read this post in its entirety. Diet Pills is a flash in the pan. It was countered by my most recent essay because diet Pills is abnormal for attracting gentlepersons also. Last decade appears to be when that happened, although I'm glad it did.
    https://www.offerplox.com/weight-loss/elite-keto-acv-gummies/

    https://www.offerplox.com/weight-loss/dietoxone/
    https://www.facebook.com/EliteKetoLetitiaDean
    https://sites.google.com/view/primalbeastusa/
    https://www.offerplox.com/weight-loss/premium-blast-keto/
    https://www.offerplox.com/skin-care/tag-free-skin-tag-remover/
    https://www.offerplox.com/men-health/primal-beast/
    https://www.nutraket.com/alpha-max-male-enhancement/

    ReplyDelete
  24. The first artificial intelligence is regarded as a checkers-playing laptop built by Oxford University (UK) computer scientists in 1951. Artificial intelligence also has functions in the financial business, the place it's used to detect and flag activity in banking and finance similar to uncommon debit card usage and enormous account deposits—all of which help a financial institution's fraud division. Applications for AI are also getting used to assist streamline and make trading simpler. This is completed by making supply, demand, and pricing of securities simpler to estimate. Machines are wired utilizing a cross-disciplinary approach primarily based on mathematics, laptop science, linguistics, psychology, and extra. The year 2022 brought AI into the mainstream by way of widespread familiarity with functions of Generative Pre-Training Transformer.
    There are ambitions to create AIs with a broader range of abilities, often known as artificial common intelligence (AGI), which may perform any task that the human mind can. In the case of a robot vacuum, the inputs could presumably be all of the various measurements from its sensors, and the output could be how it decides to maneuver. To practice the vacuum, it could presumably be shown hundreds of examples of people vacuuming rooms together with the related sensor inputs. By strengthening the relevant connections, a neural network vacuum would then ultimately learn which inputs correspond to which actions so that it could clean the room by itself.
    All respondents on this non-scientific canvassing were asked to elaborate on why they felt AI would leave individuals better off or not. Many shared deep worries, and lots of additionally suggested pathways towards solutions. The main themes they sounded about threats and cures are outlined within the accompanying table. In addition to the above, the opposite applications of AI embrace, surgical robots provides surgeons help in surgical procedures (Palep, 2009), the virtual nursing assistants assist patients and care providers in communication 24/7. AI additionally helps the health insurance firms to detect the false claims by way of the connected healthcare system.
    https://www.reviewengin.com/artificial-intelligence/

    ReplyDelete