My next tattoo is going to be the Sacred Heart of Jesus. I love the image of it, the bloody heart wrapped in the crown of thorns, pierced by a sword. Ever loving, ever suffering, ever majestic. I’ll put it on my back, my strong back that carries the weight of my own pain and that of those I love. Because as selfish as I am, I do have so much love in my heart.

I wish I could take all your pain into my body and heart. I wish it would make its home in me so that my tears, prayers, and moments of anguish would release it. Even now, as I concentrate on every one of my heartbeats, I think of you.