Love loves. It is the nature of Love to love. Philosophers and poets give us words that point to Love. We come to know it through what it does.
A friend says, “What you said yesterday hurt me.” You remember the conversation differently. Before they finish, you feel your jaw tighten and an explanation forming. You want them to understand what you meant. For a moment, that wish takes up so much room that you barely hear what they are telling you.
Give the other person time to finish
Feel the tightening and give your friend time to speak. As you listen, you may discover that what hurt was the moment you laughed, or the fact that you said it in front of someone else. Now there is something specific to respond to. You might say, “I see why that hurt. I’m sorry I said it.” If something is still unclear, you can ask and listen to the answer.
This is Welcoming in an ordinary encounter. The impulse to defend yourself has room to be felt. Your friend has room to be heard. Listening gives you a chance to discover what care means here.
Love is Wisdom Lived
Trust grows when people can speak honestly and expect to be heard. Sometimes Love apologizes. Sometimes it asks a difficult question or sets a clear boundary. A friend may need a practical hand, or simply company. The care takes its shape from the Situation.
The next time someone tells you something difficult, feel your feet on the ground and hear their sentence through to the end. Notice what becomes clear once you have heard them. Let that guide what you say or do next.
For a broader exploration, read Relationship: Welcoming, Listening and Love Lived or visit the Spiritual Awakening Journey.
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