Scars And Scratches, Knots And Gouges
The paper read something like this: "This leather is beautifully enhanced by natural scars, barbed wire scratches, wrinkles, and creases that have affected the animal in its natural environment." I took this to mean that little effort had gone into removing what some would consider to be undesirable defects and blemishes. Only a few weeks before we had read something similar about a man who couldn't keep up with the demand for unusual pieces of wood that he sold to skilled woodworkers. Those with knots, gouges, and unusual shapes produced a more sought-after product.
If you've ever been called "plastic," you know that it is not a term of endearment. It's sometimes used when people of limited communications skills want to be offensive while appearing to be sophisticated and witty. Visualize a credit card and you'll get the gist of what they mean. A credit card has little depth, is perfectly predictable, and is a carbon copy of millions of others just like it. It's not very strong and has only one limited function.
On the other hand, picture the people in your life who have been of the most benefit to you. They're the ones who have given you good advice without being preachy. They have a way of overlooking your transgressions. They've laughed when you've laughed and wept when you've wept. They have compassion and understanding for the hurting that only come from having suffered themselves. They're anything but "plastic." Why?
It's probably safe to say that they have accumulated some scars, scratches, knots and gouges on their journeys through life. Those "enhancements" are the unique markings that make them who they are. Unlike their plastic counterparts, they have depth and texture, a striking look and feel that you can be comfortable with. Plastic is cheap; the real McCoy has come at a great price. Suffering is always costly.
Letters from readers have reported circumstances of the most difficult sort. The death of children, serious physical infirmities, and children gone astray are not easy burdens to bear. In such letters I see anything but "plastic." Instead, I envision courageous people, living epistles of Napoleon Bonaparte's words: "It requires more courage to suffer than to die." Whenever the hand of affliction strikes the human soul, it always leaves a mark.
Most of us would do anything to avoid problem, and I'm really no exception. That's one reason that I appreciate those who have gladly borne the unpleasant scars, scratches, knots and gouges of life. They are the ones who instill in the rest of us the courage to keep on trying. I thank you all.
Copyright 1999 James McAlister
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