Baggage

I found this picture on Pinterest. I couldn't find the original source, but I fell in love with it. It's just so true. Here are the truths I see expressed in this picture.

1) You have baggage. Accept that. Identify what it is. Be prepared to carry it all your life. And know that it's okay to have baggage. It doesn't mean you have failed or are being punished. It means you are alive. 

2) Stop expecting other people to NOT have baggage. The check-out lady at Wal-Mart, your best friends, you teachers, your parents, your preachers, your enemies...they all have baggage, and its different than yours. They hold it differently than you do: some cradle and protect it, some are bright colors, some leave it unattended, some open it for all to see. Your baggage isn't the best, and neither is theirs. Don't become jealous of someone else's luggage, because, most likely, they think yours is a lighter load to bear, and it's not, is it? Neither is theirs.  Give them a break and don't add to their burdens, if you can help it. 

3) Surround yourself with people who don't want to unload on you, but with you. Yes, this may be a spouse (I'm thankful he is one of those people in my life), but it can be friends and mentors as well. 

4) You can't carry it around forever and never unpack it and explore what you have accumulated. It's too heavy for too long. Don't be afraid to open up a suitcase or two with those trusted individuals from #3. When its someone who wants to help and is able to, it won't be a burden to them, and it will lighten yours dramatically. 

5) Be a person who can help others unload: listen, don't try to control, help them see it from another perspective, remind them of their abundant blessings. 

What truths do you see? Or do you think it's not true at all?