One huge plus of living this close to the grandchildren is the opportunity for a quick visit. So yesterday I drove to Richmond for lunch and some much appreciated family time.
Surprising the children when they opened the front door was worth the drive. Then there was the added bonus of a visit with our dear friend Sandee, visiting from Minnesota (not exactly in the neighborhood!).
I’m always struck with the intensity of absolutely everything the children are involved in. Maybe passion is a better word. They don’t just play, they play with everything that they are; they don’t just say “hello” or “goodbye,” they throw themselves into the greeting; they don’t just smile with their mouths, they smile with their entire being – same approach when they’re upset!
“Don’t go, grandaddy!” David said when it was time. He grabbed onto my leg and hung on!
David and Beks get it. They understand that relationships are absolutely everything. They remind me that love is complete immersion.
How much do we allow ourselves to love like this? Our spouse… our family… our faith community… our God? Complete immersion.
I know people – too many people – who deliberately hold back from that kind of absorption, that level of investment, because they are afraid. Afraid of the cost, afraid of the potential for pain, or rejection. So they build walls, hold people – and God – at arms length, keep things manageably cool.
I only know that the cost of not loving is far greater. I know that love is worth the risk.
In love, and because of love – DEREK
Amen!!!!