Finding joy despite heartbreak.

I’m acquainted with a wretchedly unhappy Italian. A woman. Unfortunately, we don’t speak the same language. Otherwise, I might reach her. Certainly, I’d give it a try. Because I don’t like to see unhappy people. Especially those that don’t have to be unhappy. This woman could become happy again. In relatively short order. If she got her head together. If she got psychological counseling. She ain’t stupid. But she’s not listening to reason. Because she’s emotionally distraught.  In the depths of despair. She might even be headed for a nervous breakdown. I’d like to persuade the woman to see a psychotherapist. She won’t. Maybe she’s ashamed to admit that she’s becoming seriously mentally ill. Burdened with emotional problems.  No doubt, she’s had some serious emotional trauma. But so do others. And many of ‘em find ways to cope. They get help.  Life doesn’t always go smoothly. But still, most of us find ways to cope. And to become happy again. Often, all it takes is to quit feeling sorry for one’s self. And to get on with life. She could do that. And maybe she will. Eventually. On her own. But I doubt that she’s capable of doing it by herself. She needs help. From a friend or acquaintance.  Or professional counseling. Help, period. That’s the keyword. Help. Some of us can’t do it all by ourselves. We need an assist. If only I could speak her language, I’d make it known that I really care. I wish she cared more. About herself. Maybe that’s what makes for unhappy people.. They don’t care enough – about themselves. Otherwise,  they’d find happiness. Maybe even joy. Despite the turmoil and heartbreak. –Jim Broede