“The heart knows its own bitterness, and a stranger does not share its joy” (Proverbs 14:10).
Because we humans are social creatures, “No man is an island, entire of itself” (John Donne). Yet, because we humans are made in the image of God, every person has a part of himself that is unknown to all others, except God.
Deep within everyone’s heart—unknown to all others—there is a pile of disappointments which has accumulated over time: a distant mate, a wayward child, a foolish decision, an unfulfilling job, a loss of health, a tragic death, a failure to realize one’s youthful dreams or a unique potential. Like discarded junk heaped into a pile, these disappointments leave a bitter aftertaste.
On the other side of the ledger is life’s joys. These bright and happy moments bathe the soul with sunshine and cheer. Surprisingly though, these points in life are often shared with few others. A stranger can be happy for you at such times, but he really cannot be happy with you.
It really is quite challenging to “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Rom. 12:15).
❤️❤️❤️ this resonated with me today.