Each time we catch up, I am reminded of the reasons I miss our conversation. I know it is more than the specific details that we shared. I have come to appreciate the importance of different viewpoints. The conversation with his view in it reveals far more of the story than I would have seen by myself. It is also more than a unique combination of values. Although, each conversation which includes his reactions and values always has a different texture and nuance.
As I reflect, I realise there is positive intent and a consistent search for hope and opportunity in every conversation. Even when we are exploring difficult subjects, some of which ended without an answer, the threads of compassion and empathy are present.
What lingers with me as the echoes fade is the realisation of goodness. I carry the opportunity to bring this into conversation. I have the freedom to reveal this. I have a choice to use what I have, including hope, caring, and love. With a renewed sense of the possibilities in this moment, I find myself reading Paul’s old words differently; “And that’s why I can’t wait to get to you in Rome, [sharing] preaching this wonderful good news of God.” (Romans 1.15)
I know we did not solve all the problems shared in our time together. What I do sense is that we struggled together, working to understand alternatives and options. We explored possibilities with a sense of wonder and openness. Nothing was off the table.
There is the second conversation in the past few days were the foundation of things shared took precedence over our differences. Starting with shared bonds, values, and hope, we used our differences to explore, examine, and challenge ourselves. The conversations which followed still linger, feeding reflection and inviting me to consider and imagine.
The Abrahamic Family conversation began a few days ago was replayed over our morning coffee with bread and homemade marmalade. It is a conversation I hope will be like sweet incense, rising, permeating every corner of the room and my life.
