Cliches are Crap

I think we've all been on the receiving end of a well meaning cliche at some point in time in our lives. Maybe it was when we were dealing with a death in the family, or with the reality of having been cut from a sports team or dance competition. In these moments of time what we really need is someone to be present with us...to listen to what we have to say and to make sure we don't harm ourselves or others.

Unfortunately what we usually get is some sort of well intentioned rhetoric that allows the speaker to remain disconnected from our pain and suffering.

What do you tell a kid who has lost his mom or dad?? "God is in control, He knows what He's doing." This statement may be true, but it doesn't mean much to the one that is on the receiving end at times.

What most people need in these moments is someone to say..."I know this sucks. I want you to know that I'm there for you and I'm going to be praying for you." And this should only be said when and if you have taken the time to listen to the other person's pain.

Cliches are a dime a dozen (cliche), but true friends are difficult to find. If you are looking for a friend who sticks with you in the good and bad times, trying being one to someone else first...it might give you some perspective on what you may need when you are going through a rough patch of your own one day.