My Collection of Stories and Scars: A Personal Journey
Life is a canvas, and for many of us, it's marred with scars - some self-inflicted, some by accidents, and some by experiences we'd rather forget. In this article, I share my collection of stories and scars, each unique and telling a distinct part of my life's epic tale.
Self-Harm and Unforgettable Scars
One of my most enduring scars is the result of self-harm in the form of a cat-shaped scar. Another also reads the word "hate," serving as a constant reminder and a silent cry for help. These scars, while painful, have helped me in my journey towards understanding and healing.
Other scars are not from self-harm. One on my left pinky and ring finger is from a playful interaction with a cat, while another around my ankles is from flea bites. They speak of moments of care and little mishaps that brought joy and laughter.
The Scar from an Argument
The most memorable scar formed from a spat with my fiancée. She had a pair of pinking shears, and in the heat of the moment, she waved them around my back. They somehow managed to graze me, leaving a scar across the right side of my back. Fortunately, the shears slipped vertically and did not cause severe damage. The incident brought her to her senses, and she felt guilty, though she would become a narcissist later and dump me before our wedding.
A Childhood Accident
One of my earliest scars came from a childhood accident when I was around 3. On a dare to slide down the steps at our house, I got a splinter under my skin that required medical intervention. Despite the ordeal at the doctor's office, the scar is now a small bump on my butt.
Another scar is from when I was around 5 and at my grandparents' farm. I fell on the edge of my mom's old Studebaker, cutting my thigh. The day was memorable not only for the scar but also for the little baby doll my mom bought me from the drugstore later that day, a splurge at that time.
A Zookeeper's Experience
During my time as a zookeeper, a particular coati left a memorable scar. During my routine cleaning, I felt a hard hit, and it turned out a coati had bitten and scooped out a chunk of flesh from my leg behind my knee. The scar, resembling a smiley face, remains a symbol of those challenging and unpredictable moments.
Other Scars and Stories
I have several other scars from various experiences. Some are from working outside and clearing fences, while others are from a car accident that left a funny scar on my forehead. These scars, while not as prominent, are part of the story of my life.
Finally, I have scars on my heart too. They're less visible but just as real. As time passes, these emotional scars do start to fade, and I hope to keep them from growing any deeper.
My scars, both physical and emotional, are a testament to the journey of life, filled with both joy and challenges. Each one of them carries its own story, contributing to the tapestry of my life. And although I hope to not get any more scars, I embrace them as the lessons they offer.