Learning to Love In Spite of Our Pain.

“Among the men and women, the multitude,
I perceive one picking me out by secret and divine signs,
Acknowledging none else—not parent, wife, husband, brother, child,
any nearer than I am;
Some are baffled—But that one is not—that one knows me.” – Walt Whitman

I had the occasion yesterday to face one of my most outspoken critics.

Yes, my darlings – believe it or not, I experience them, too. And though, I’m generally well liked amongst my team, it seems – not everyone can be pleased.

Indeed, not everyone can be pleased. Likewise, some beliefs may be formed and founded on that which is completely unrelated to you.

And, since when is it our place upon this earth to right the opinion of others? To do so, would be an endlessly impossible task.

“It’s not what you look at that matters,” shared author, Henry David Thoreau, “it’s what you see.”

We spend so much of our time locked inside of judgement’s snare. Whether by way of self-criticism, or our discernment of others – our minds can’t help but to tumble inward.

But, what is it that we’re truly seeing?

Do we see ourselves through the eyes of compassion? Or, via the harsh veil of another person’s criticism?

More so, has it become such a deeply ingrained response – that, we’re often unaware of our movement towards it? These nearly imperceptible fluctuations of heart, at times seem so sadly unnoticed – as ‘common’ as the air we breathe.

Have we become, perhaps, so inadvertently ‘numb’ to the energy of loving-kindness?

I certainly don’t think so.

As for every instance of surly snipping, there’s a moment of compassion to replace it.

And, that’s the true test – now, isn’t it. It’s not how we behave while others are watching – rather, how we conduct ourselves when nothing is to be gained.

You see, one day those who’ve caused us the most unbearable pain – will be in a position of ‘needing’ love in return.

Love them anyway.

And,

Love them in spite of your pain.

THAT is what makes all the difference, my friends; and, THAT is what changes this world.

Love is really all and everything you’ll ever need – and, our purpose here is to help others  realize.

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About

Tara Lemieux is a mindful wanderer, and faithful stargazer. Although she often appears to be listening with great care, rest assured she is most certainly‘forever lost in thought. She is an ardent explorer and lover of finding things previously undiscovered or at the very least mostly not-uncovered.

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2 Comments

    • Much gratitude, love!! lol…p.s. – I’ve found I quite like the nickname of ‘sugaplum’ 🙂 You’ve once again helped to make my heart smile big. xoxoxo

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