those who have known

the most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. these persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. beautiful people do not just happen.

– elisabeth kubler-ross

my intention for this month is to seek light, which takes on many forms (i hope!). even though this quote is a bit heavy and is from the expert on grief and loss, i found it speaking to me about the ways in which the heaviness of all of our lives brings to light our goodness. i think the defeat, suffering, struggle, and loss work to erode away the shells we all try to maintain and forces us to reveal our otherwise hidden tenderness.