There Are Also Wounds On Blades of Grass by Jeong Ho-seung

There are also wounds on blades of grass,

there are also wounds on petals.

As I walk along the field paths
where you and I once walked together,
when I sit by the field path
and gaze at the glow of sunset
wounded blades of grass
wave their hands.

Petals with many wounds
smell sweetest.

 This is such a lovely poem by the Korean poet, Jeong Ho-Seung.   According to what I have read about it, the poem is talking about the beauty created by hurt and wounds.  No one can escape this life unscathed by wounds, yeah?  I suppose there are times when the wounds we receive cause us to become hardened and mean and hurtful to others, but I'd like to believe that--more often than not--when we stand strong after a wound and begin the process of healing from it, the wound helps kindness, compassion and fellowship grow within our hearts.   We can recognize that all people hurt and experience the same kind pain, and--with that knowledge--we can support others when they are dealing with the pain they have.   

Think of a couple--married 50 years.   On the day of their 50th wedding anniversary, does that Husband not think his wife is more beautiful than the day he married her?  He is blind to the 30 extra pounds, wrinkles, and white hair because he knows it came from years of making chili and cinnamon rolls and cleaning up after toddlers and teenagers. He has seen her fall down by the blow of a wound; and he has seen her stand back up with strength and endeavor to keep on truckin'.   Each of her wounds and blows has made her more beautiful to him.

And on the day of their 50th wedding anniversary, does that Wife not look up to her husband and still see the tall, strong man she married?  She is blind to his rounded shoulders, slow gait, and silver hair because she knows they came from years of working hard to protect and provide for his family.  She has seen him wounded and heal; and then walk out the door in the morning to continue being the 'house band' of their family.  Each of his wounds and blows has made him more handsome to her.

'Petals with many wounds smell sweetest...' because they are still living and can give off the scent of strength, life, and beauty.     I hope I can always look at my people and see their wounds and recognize the beauty in their strength through adversity, but--just in case I don't--remind me: 

'Loralee, Petals with many wounds smell sweetest.'