Only to the extent that we expose ourselves over and over to annihilation can that which is indestructible in us be found. (Pema Chödrön)
I’ve been exposed to plenty of annihilation in my life: head injuries, physical assaults, accidents, relationship train wrecks, mental meltdowns, pervasive harassment. I’ve eaten pavement and stared down the barrel of a gun. TBI (Traumatic Brain Injuries) are intense and life-disrupting. I know what it’s like to lose my pride, my cognitive function, the ability to speak. I know what it’s like to lose jobs, money, my self-respect. I know what it’s like to lose my mental health, my confidence, my friends. The only thing that survived? That proved to be indestructible? My heart. It refuses to stop loving. And it’s gotten stronger.
