I reflect on the times in my life when I’ve fallen in love… that temporary flame that roars to life in a heartbeat but then fizzles as fast as it came.
Then, there are the times I’ve given my heart and soul only to have the other person’s heart harden and cut me off for no reason. I’ve felt my heart shatter in a million pieces at this single revelation from someone I adore: “I just don’t feel anything for you anymore.”
I’ve felt the bittersweet pain at the passing of my grandparents and my great aunt who was like another grandmother to me. And now I walk through this latest transition of my mother.
I marvel at the fickleness of men and hearts that wax cold overnight, and those who have no regard for anyone but themselves and their momentary pleasures. Those who trample and treat so lightly the covenants they’ve made before God and men.
I marvel at the resilience of the human heart to open itself up over and over again to pain. Loving is such a vulnerable risk, isn’t it?
All of it makes this flood of peace and love I’ve experienced from my mother shine in stark contrast to what we see in the world. Her love beams through chaotic storm clouds and soothes me, lifts me, and inspires me to hope for good things to come.
How grateful I am for a love that endures time, trouble, life, and death. This love is rare and priceless. Thank you, Mama for teaching me how to love.
Featured Image Copyright: PHOTOCREO Michal Bednarek / BigStockPhoto.com
