Time

   They say that time heals all wounds.  But does it really?  Is it time that takes away the pain from years of torment and abuse at the hands of one's peers?  Or is it the realization that one is simply stronger than that?  Is it time that allows someone to forget the hateful words that have been spoken to them time after time?  Or is it the determination to stop letting the opinions of others govern their lives?  Is it time that gives a person the ability to stand up for themselves?  Or is it the courage they build to say, "I'm stronger than you think I am"?

   The simple truth is that time cannot fix everything.  While wounds may heal, and scars may fade, the pain of physical and emotional torture can last a lifetime.  No amount of time can ever take away those feelings of alienation and hurt.  No amount of time can ever make a person forget the words that cut them again and again.  No amount of time can ever mend the broken soul of a person who faced relentless torment.

   The only thing that can heal the victims of pain is the love and support of others.  Kind words have the power to fight off the hurtful ones.  A warm embrace can melt even the most icy glare.  A simple kind gesture has the power to lift the spirit of the most miserable of people.  These things have the power to heal the emotional and psychological wounds left by hostile actions.  They only need to be offered.