Some things I have learned #16

Subtitle: Or, at the least, I think I believe

Sub-subtitle: Or, at the most, I believe I know

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My life in this world and my labor as a pastor confirm constantly for me that one of the most wondrous and most arduous elements of human existence is relationships. Especially of the intimate sort. Two people, each an individual, therefore, each essentially self-interested, come together.

And when their personal and innate self-interest is enlightened, they, in serving each other, can gain long-sought and deeply-treasured benefits for themselves.

And when their self-interest is unenlightened, that is, largely selfish, they can cause each other much sorrow.

Choosing the former over the latter, they, daily, have an opportunity, but never an obstacle-free path, to yield mutual blessing.

From the dawn of time, people, for the sake of the wonder and despite the difficulty, have sought to engage in relationships; oft, at least, at the beginning, with the best of intentions. And, through their lives together, verily, their one life together, when those best intentions are renewed, mutually and daily, they, each to and with the other, experience blessed fruits of their labors; among them: love and understanding, fidelity and security, vulnerability and acceptance, patience and forgiveness. And, even more, they, in their lives of witness in the world, share – for love always gives! – these fruits with others.

© 2020 PRA