What’s love got to do with it?
Which words might you use to define what it means to be loved? Considering we each are different, and have experienced a vast array of life stories, our answers and thoughts will vary. A challenge is to take the time to ask oneself this question. If we each hope and dream of being loved, it makes sense to give language to what that means.
I am interested enough to invite you, if you’re comfortable, to share your thoughts as I explore this intriguing journey myself. Consider letting me know by email (pastor@kariongchurch.org). I promise all responses will be treated with absolute confidentiality.
Where am I up to so far? Amidst many, one thought that keeps bubbling to the top is that ‘being loved’ is having a relationship in which one ‘feels safe’, no matter what is going on in the world around. I was very blessed growing up in a family where I felt very safe. Sadly, many haven’t. It didn’t matter what chaos was happening all around, I had a ‘safe place’. I felt loved.
Yet, we leave the safety of the nest, and are thrust into a chaotic, difficult world where hard stuff happens to excellent people. How does one survive without being loved? How does one survive without a safe place to escape to? Even if that place is simply a loving refuge to hide from ‘everything’ until tomorrow. Again, I am blessed to be loved. Not everyone is as fortunate.
My ancient book of wisdom and truth tells me “God is love.” May I offer another challenge? Gather your words and thoughts about love. Then put them beside your definition of God. For myself, and I am confident many others, my definition of God changed. It blossomed in the most wondrous, life changing ways. Even if it’s just for a few moments a day, everyone needs a safe space. Everyone needs to be loved.