Love cannot grow in confinement. Nothing good blossoms in the dark.
In order for someone to love us completely, we must allow them the space and the light to see us objectively. We mustn’t judge them for asking the questions that are inherent to their vantage point.
When we love someone, we acknowledge and honor their freedom to ask themselves the hard questions, which by the way, we should also ask ourselves. Expecting someone not to evaluate or re-evaluate your relationship with them is not love. It is fear. But, we can fear what conclusions they may reach without judging the person for inquiring.
Love is something that is discovered and shared, not fabricated and imposed. It is not a warm blanket under which we hide with someone to conceal them from the rest of the world, and vice versa. It is a source of light that shines down upon us, fortifying us in all our relationships, helping us see everyone more clearly and drawing us closer to them, and to all of life.
Hey Folks,
Last week was a little crazy for me. After attending a family funeral on Monday, I spent a couple days on the couch, sleeping off some variation of the flu. I apologize for my absence. However, I did post a few things here last week, without sharing them each via email to all of you. There are a couple more episodes of The Podcast available to all subscribers for a limited time.
And, maybe you saw my bracket for the NCAA tournament. After Indiana fell last night, all of my picks for the Final Four are out of contention. On the other hand, my high school basketball team will play for a state championship Saturday night.
Anyway . . . I’m working on a few things right now, including something I’m calling my Boundaries & Relationship Maintenance Toolkit. I’m excited about that. I’ll also be sharing a piece (in a few installments) called 50 Lessons in 50 Years, having spent a fair amount of time reflecting considering my recent birthday.
After spending my first year in winter weather in more than two decades, I’m pleased it’s the first day of spring.
If you know someone who’d appreciate this, please share it.
Have a great week,