We’ve all been “here” haven’t we.  In fact, some of us might be “here” right now. Unfortunately (or I might argue fortunately because of what you learn “here”), none of us get to escape being “here” sooner or later.  You know, it’s that place where we find ourselves head on with what appears to be something that wants to throw us way off course.

It’s a place that doesn’t discriminate.  Everyone gets their fair share “here.”It comes in so many different packages/forms, but it all includes some form of challenge or struggle.  Sometimes when we’re in this place it’s crystal clear for others to see and at other points it can seem invisible on the surface and make others believe we have the perfect life.  Even though we’re all wise enough to know that the perfect life doesn’t exist for any of us.  For some, it may come in the form of financial troubles where we lose a job, a house, a savings account, a retirement fund.  For others, it may be a devastating diagnosis or prognosis, a death of close friend or family member, a horrific event that leaves a community shaken.  Or a busted up relationships or a broken family and dreams, a miscarriage/infertility, or a tragic accident.  And so on.  Sometimes it can present itself as heavy emotions triggered by something in our past or even feelings we have that are  unrelated to any specific circumstance or event.

When we’re “here,” we can reach a point where we feel like no one’s been down the path we’re being asked to walk.  There’s pain down this road,  unanswered questions, fear, hopelessness, and uncertainty, the feeling that we are alone despite whether or not we have a strong support network.  It’s in this place called “here” that I’ve realized the comfort of these two simple words “me too.”  Maybe the person that says those words has walked a similar path.  Or perhaps they’ve walked a completely different path, but had similar thoughts and feelings to those that we’re experiencing.  When someone says, “me too” it can literally feel like a weight being lifted.  Another person who understands and has compassion for the difficult path we’re on.  A person who “gets it” and is willing to share with us how they are hanging on, getting by, seeking help, praying something through, pressing into their faith.  Who can you comfort and encourage today by simply saying “me too?”  We have no idea the ripple effect these two simple words can have on someone’s life.  And what a way to pay it forward if you’ve been “here” and these words have meant so much to you.