The question is: Is it coming or going? Is it good or bad?
My first thought was a terrible crash. Pain and suffering. Those killed or wounded. Those left behind to pick up the pieces. The permanent alteration of a life. A life changed in an instant. We say things like that in the aftermath of disaster, whether public or personal. "She will never be the same."
But what if we turn it around and think about the good and amazing and mesmerizing. Joy and exhilaration. Those stunned and awed by what they have just seen or experienced. Those given the opportunity to share the miracle they have witnessed. The permanent alteration of a life. A life changed in an instant. Why don't we say things like that in the aftermath of amazing moments? "She will never be the same."
I have been altered by all the events of my life, I just don't recognize the good alterations as often as I recognize the evil ones. Physical abuse at age 4 -- sexual abuse at age 5 -- verbal abuse as a teenager -- a rape in college -- another rape after I was married and a mother. Awful life altering events.
But what about the good alterations. Writing a play for my 3rd grade class to perform. Being asked to sing publicly for the first time at 14. Playing leading roles in high school plays. College theater and opera. Meeting my husband. Having friends who have been with me a lifetime. Giving birth to 2 healthy children and watching them grow to adulthood. Opportunities to serve others, and write, and talk, and share. Amazing life altering events.
So what do you see? Good or bad?
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