"A Work of Art"
Edward Fischer writes in Notre Dame Magazine (February, 1983),
that a leper in Fiji followed the leading of his twisted hands.
He became an internationally known artist. "My sickness I see as
a gift of God leading me to my life's work," he said. "If it had
not been for my sickness, none of these things would have happened."
As a young girl, Jessamyn West had tuberculosis. She was so sick
that she was sent away to die. During that time she developed her
skill as a writer and authored numerous novels in her lifetime.
That great author Flanner O'Connor suffered numerous ailments --
lupus struck her at 25 and she walked only with the aid of
crutches for the final fourteen years of her life. She noted,
however, that this illness narrowed her activities in such a way
that she had time for the real work of her life, which was writing.
Some people succeed in spite of handicaps. Others succeed because
of them. The truth is... our problems help to make us what we
are. Those who suffer often learn the value of compassion. Those
who struggle often learn perseverance. And those who fall down
often teach others how to rise again. Our troubles can shape us
in ways a care-free existence cannot.
A story is told of an Eastern village which, through the
centuries, was known for its exquisitely beautiful pottery.
Especially striking were its urns; high as tables, wide as
chairs, they were admired around the globe for their strong form
and delicate beauty.
Legend has it that when each urn was apparently finished, there
was one final step. The artist broke it -- and then put it back
together with gold filigree.
An ordinary urn was then transformed into a priceless work of
art. What seemed finished wasn't... until it was broken.
So it is with people! Broken by hardships, disappointments and
tragedy, they can be either discarded or healed. But when mended
by a hand of infinite patience and love, the finished product
will be a work of exquisite beauty -- a life which could only
reach its completeness after it was broken.
If you feel broken remember... you are a work of art! And you may
not actually be complete until the pieces are reassembled and
bonded with a golden filigree of love.
[Author unknown]