Black Ribbon

We seem to have become obsessed with the idea of ribbons, wristbands & badges. Indicating support of some group or other, or perhaps in regard to some idea.
A visible indicator.
We are a visual creature, after all.
So much is identified by sight. We crave symbols.

But without understanding what the particular sign actually denotes, what is the point of doing so.



Ribbons, badges wristbands - whether tied to a particular period of time or not - tend to become rather meaningless or trivialised. There are so many 'ribbon' days for this, that or the other. Why is this any different?

Primarily this is intended for those of us who live with these illnesses. Have no doubts: these are illnesses. They are far more debillitating than the majority of people realise.
It is a terrible sadness that such people honestly believe that saying something along the lines of "chin up" is both positive & practical assistance. Just telling us to "cheer up" automatically makes us feel better.

We know it is not nearly that simple.
Telling somebody enduring these (& other such illnesses) only does harm. It is no stretch of the imagination to realise that if we could feel better - to cheer up - we would already have done so!

Wear a black ribbon for your own sake.
Wear a black ribbon even if it doesn't show for anyone to see.
Wear a black ribbon, not to draw attention, but to increase awareness.
Someone else may realise they are not alone, as we often feel. Something as simple as a hug can make a difference to someone unwell. Giving that hug can feel just as good, & better.
Now that is worthwhile.

Hugs for you all!