Read If You’d Love To
A few years ago, I began replacing “can you [please] _____?” with “would you love to _____?” I don’t remember what prompted the shift. I do remember feeling awkward, but determined.
I knew that I wanted to live in a world where every move is made in love. It felt vulnerable and exhilarating to claim that. It felt even more vulnerable and exhilarating to practice it. It still does.
Last fall, I went to a gathering. As the music waned and drowsiness descended, I asked a new friend if he’d love to give me a ride home. “I wouldn’t love to, but I will.”
It was late. I was tired and feeling sick. It was too cold and too far to walk. I felt pressured by friends to accept the ride, and the thought of explaining myself to my new friend was exhausting. Can I maintain this “only if you would love to” mentality even when it’s inconvenient? I felt challenged and frustrated when the peppy, “what a great time to practice!” thought fist pumped through my weariness. I thanked him for his honesty and declined the ride.
He grew irritated.
“But I said I would take you.”
I shrugged, felt soft and strong.
“Everything can’t be done in love!”
“I’m going to try my best.”
“It’s impossible.”
“I need to try.”
“How will you get home?”
I shrugged, felt soft and strong.
He walked away, exasperated. A few minutes later, he returned.
“I would love to take you home.”
The ride back was quiet. About two weeks later, I received a message from him:
“Would love to hear more about the practice of loving everything you do.”
- See more at: http://theunraveling.net/#sthash.qQA2WWVB.dpuf
Comments