Do you know what a mosaic is? A mosaic is a pattern or image made of small regular or irregular pieces of colored stone, glass or ceramic, held in place by plaster, and covering a surface.

Stories were shared with me but those tales are not mine to share. I listened with patience and was willing to listen for hours more. I heard confusion, doubt, inner conflict, a desire for resolution, and closure. But I did not hear or sense despair. What I did hear was thoughtful contemplation focused on healing. Facing the fire and being able to burn more brightly without being burned again. Like Icarus there is always a danger when we fly too close to the sun. But often desires (even when we know they’re not good for us) can be strong that they result in us being reduced to a pile of ashes filled with self blame. None of us are immune. The important thing after the fall is that we get up, dust ourselves off and try again. Hopefully learning from the faltering of our past footsteps.

Here lies the beauty of the mosaic. Hundreds or maybe thousands of broken pieces that can be repaired and put back together in a new and beautiful way. It will never look like the original tile that was destroyed but it can be reminiscent if not better. We get to create what we want to see and be. As we rebuild new patterns will emerge as we adjust the pieces. Some pieces will not fit and it’s okay to discard them. They may have served you once but no longer.

Do you like what you see? You should! You’ve kept all that you need…the best. Now plaster your stunning mosaic in place to hold it together. Do this with love, hope, and satisfaction in a job well done needing approval from only you. Others may judge but it means nothing because they didn’t do the work.

If you need help there is no shame in asking for it from someone who has earned your trust. You’ll find that friend like my friend found me. I may be ill equipped to provide professional advice on trauma but I can listen. We can all listen, love, and encourage. Because one day we may be creating our own mosaic.

Broken yet beautiful.

Inspired by one that shall remain unnamed.