Broken-heartedness is the beginning of all real reception
Jack Hirschman
Jack’s line seems rather brutal and not one of the most uplifting phrases that have ever been written.
When we have our hearts broken, as we all have and as we all do, we have a choice. We could barricade ourselves securely behind the concrete pylons of bitterness, revenge and retribution. This will effectively keep any potential and possibilities of a close relationship and intimacy safely away in another ‘country’, a different dimension. This ensures that the same gut-wrenching of hurt can never envelop us again.
Or… we could, if we are very brave and over a long period of time with lots of bumps, bruises and relapses, use the experience to refine our gifts of compassion, understanding and empathy.
In a world that seems to have fiercely set up its cement and barbed wire borders, we need folk who can empathise and understand. Those who, when they hear us howl, can say to themselves… ‘Ah, yes, I remember this bit. I know what this felt like. I would really have appreciated someone just to sit with me and maybe just quietly pass me yet another box of tissues.’
We need people who will wisely, graciously and with great tenderness receive us when we are at our lowest.
Jack’s words are a call to all of us to transfigure that revolting experience, which is our most ickiest, into the most welcoming and sought-after ministry.
The really good news is that you don’t need to have a clerical collar to do this. Some of the most scrumptious acts of caring I have ever had the privilege of receiving have been from people who are exactly like you, dear reader, and you have left me inspired and always wanting more.