Behind Closed Eyes

The other day, I had a conversation with someone that really just blew me away. They told me what all they'd been through in their life and how it has effected them in the long run. I thought I've been through some rough patches before, but never like this. They've had actual fears that I could never imagine. It really just made me think. How many people do we pass everyday? How many of them have hidden troubles? Usually everyone, but what sets people apart from one another is how they cope with these struggles. I've been in super depression before because something small happened to me. This person I talked to has just said "I'm going to make it make me a better person." And that's exactly what that person did. You would never suspect something was wrong with them. I've been in a class with this person for at least 3 months and a whole semester last year, but I never knew. They didn't act like anything bothered them. They were just distant. After our conversation, I see why. I never thought twice about why that person seemed distant from everyone. I assumed it was shyness, which made sense. Many people are shy. It could be more than that, but you never know. I was lucky enough for this person to come out and tell me. If you knew our relationship, you would be confused on why they told me this story of their life. I was shocked when they started talking. Of all people to tell, why me? Anyway, I thought it was an amazing story. The journey they've traveled just made me shiver. They've seen things, experienced things, and sacrificed things most of us will NEVER have to. I don't think this person realized how much of an impact they made on my life. Just by talking for about 15 or 20 minutes, that person showed me what true struggle is. I'm truly thankful for all I have and so is he. We all should just sit back and take a moment to reflect on everything we witness everyday. I know everyone always says "You never know what people are going through....." Heck, I've said it, but really, some of the most content people are the ones with the deepest cuts.