RIP Glen Hansard

All my life, I’ve known—much to my dismay—that people often say things they don’t mean, make promises they don’t keep, offer things and then fail to follow-through.

As a kid, I never understood it. Why say things you don’t mean? Why over-promise and then leave someone hanging? It didn’t make sense to me. I’ve always been logical in that respect—I will not say yes when I mean no. I won’t commit to anything I can’t follow-through on.

I don’t like disappointing people. I don’t like being disappointed by people.

“I’ll do X.” “I’ll help with Y!”

These statements can be well-meaning, but there’s a weird ache, when you realize it was just something someone said. That there was nothing of substance behind it.

I tend to take people at their word, most days. Until I’m given a reason not to. I’d rather give someone the benefit of the doubt than make a snap judgement based on the past and/or someone else’s bullshit.

But that doesn’t make the fallout easier to manage, when it happens. And I try very hard to be the person who appreciates everything. Life is short. Time is one thing we don’t get back. So, the friend that checks in, messages with me late at night, when I should be sleeping but can’t? That matters. Those who show up, in whatever way that means, matter to me.

I am lucky in that, and I try very hard not to focus on the absent and the absence. But, you know, being a person isn’t always easy—and the heartache can sometimes settle in. I wish it didn’t. I wish I didn’t notice everything. But I do.

And that’s all part of being a person. But still: BOOOOO. I object.

Those moments always pass. No feeling stays forever. But in the middle of it, it is best to face those feelings and name them. Rarely does it do any good to ignore them or run away. (Sigh.)

So, maybe you need permission, today, to sit with something uncomfortable. Consider it granted. Consider it yours. Sometimes, the best way to solve a problem is to walk straight into the labyrinth and greet whatever’s waiting at the center of it. Just bring snacks. (Listen, snacks always help.)

Until next time, darlings!

Psssst, have you read Offerings for Ordinary Gods? Did you love it? Please leave a review on Goodreads, Amazon, etc. It’d really mean the world to me.

ALSO, the partner of a good friend is a graphic designer, among other things, and is looking for work. Check out their post: https://www.instagram.com/p/DUO187FEaQz/?img_index=2