There is a scene, in the 2003 British movie Love Actually, where Karen (Emma Thompson), breaks down privately in her bedroom after opening a Christmas present from her husband Harry (Alan Rickman). Instead of finding the expensive necklace she had earlier stumbled upon in his coat pocket, she tears away at the packaging to reveal a copy of Joni Mitchell's
Both Sides Now.
For your continuing emotional education, he says. She now knows that Harry is having an affair.
Karen weeps briefly but the pain is really palpable. Emma's a wonderful actress. She then manages to compose herself sufficiently to attend the kids' Nativity school-play with Harry. He is none the wiser. But she's an emotional wreck inside.
I imagine a friend having gone through the same scene this afternoon. Expecting some good news from the Doctor's office, only to discover that the gynaecologist has something else wrapped up in mind. I imagine the same feelings of shock, sadness and numbing pain. And I would imagine the tears flowed freely too, in secret.
You'll never see this in here. But I want to tell you everything will be OK girl. Don't hide behind that facade of composure. I know you're scared.
Me too.
Labels: Musings