Can I Borrow A Nail?

I have a big mouth. I'll talk just about anything with anyone. I chat with total strangers at the Pepsi store, grocery store, park. I have friendly acquaintances everywhere I go. I know about the gal who had emergency heart surgery and how scary it was to be so close to death. There's the Grandma who fills me in on the growth of her granddaughter. There's the mom who CONSTANTLY fights with her teen about grades (sound familiar?) I know people who are doing drugs, quit doing drugs, filed bankruptcy, buried a loved one, been to jail, out of work, finding new careers, going to school...you name it. I know stories of triumph and despair, life and death, loss and gain. I don't know a single name behind the stories. We have never really been introduced officially, but we chat. Sometimes they cry, we both cry, we laugh, we jest, we talk, we share.

I don't judge. After all, who am I to point fingers? I have been down roads that would scare the crap out of some.  I have hit my own version of rock bottom and have slugged my way out. I may have been missing a few teeth when I finally clawed my way out, but I was smiling when I reached the top.

I have always believed that we were each born with tools. These are the gifts that we rely on when times get tough and it becomes necessary to sling away the sludge that threatens to engulf us. The thing is, the ick is different for each individual and the tools are just as individualized.  I don't believe that these tools are just for the ick-removal process. I think they are gifts that are better used to build. Maybe they can be used to build a shelter, but even more so, wouldn't it be great to build a fortress that can withstand the elements?

There is safety in numbers. In times of natural disaster, communities group together. When 09.11.2001 hit, our entire country came together in grief and confusion and we worked the problem. Somehow, against all belief, we came out stronger and wiser. There is steadfastness within each of us ... a resolve that NOONE will have to "do that" again. Neighbors bring casseroles to funerals, and dinners are provided to families with new babies.

I think it's important to keep these lines of communication open in ALL aspects of our lives. Wouldn't it be wonderful if we all shared ideas and problem solving skills we found beneficial and useful in the hard times? Are we embarrassed or ashamed of what others may think? I promise you, EVERYONE who walks this planet has something to share. I say REGULARLY that "we all have a story". I'm not afraid to tell mine and I'm always interested to hear yours. I love to comment/ask "Oh-my-gosh! What did you do?" And tuck away the ideas and problem solving skills to use when the time comes for me to face a challenge where that tool just might work.

So, I've been blessed with a hammer. Anyone who needs one just let me know. I'd like to borrow a nail and maybe a saw would be helpful. Let's build a fortress that will stand the test of time. AND let's paint it yellow. Okay?