Relationships

An old and special friend reminded me again of how precious relationships are.  I don’t think the subject is ever far from my mind, yet the reminder was a special gift.  In this gift were conversations, images, experiences, quiet steps, and even a confrontation or two.  You see we share a relationship centered on the Divine which can never destroyed.  It may change, things always do with time.  At its heart there is a warmth, depth, and understanding I hope I always remember and find inspiration from. 
 
As I think about my journey, past, present, and future, I find myself holding many such gifts.  As I explore the heart of each, I find they are variations on a common theme, hope.  It is a hope based in principled relationships.  The principles are simply compassion live, acceptance realized, and mercy given.  It is a hope based on living relationships with Divinity.  As one combines principles and living relationships you discover a connection that is different than anything else in this life. 
 
Jesus understood this connection and what it meant.  He also found describing it best through metaphors.  His invitation then and now is at the heart of the gifts I have received.  “I am the Vine, you are the branches.  When you're joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant.  Separated, you can't produce a thing.”  (John 15.5)
 
We “are” through our relationships.  It is in the interactions, embrace, and life which follows that our greatest success is conceived, nurtured, and reaches fruition.  In the greatest sense it is life itself. 
 
Life will take us many places.  What exists today is at best fleeting.  Throughout the flow we have an opportunity to be a part of and influence the course of the lives we touch and the course of humanity.  It is an awesome opportunity few realize until it is too late.  Seize the day!  Be the one who gives hope.  Be the one who reaches out unconditionally.  Let your words be truth.  Be the light.