The Loneliest Life

"The loneliest life is the life lived unloved."

I had the opportunity to spend the weekend with a dear friend who has been experiencing some turbulence in his personal life. We were just contemplating his potential when he said those words to me. A very intimate and difficult conversation ensued, and this post is a memorialization for those of us who believe Love never fails, or fails to forgive... and forget.

Some of the conversation cannot be repeated for obvious reasons, but here is a piece of the story of the journey of finding one's peace. It is within. There is no sense looking around for it.

To seek after Love is not erroneous thinking, but one should not have to seek that which is abundantly available. No. One is always allowed to receive Love in its purest form in effortless fashion by just being.

When Love seems unavailable it is only an illusion. Life is filled with illusions of great variety, created by fearful thinking and made real by repeating difficult scenarios over and over. Not only am I loved, I am loving. I am lovable just as I am. Imperfections included at no extra charge. Imperfections actually serve to strengthen bonds when given the chance.

Forgiveness allows me to find peace in spite of the appearance of lovelessness. I am a forgiver now. (Formerly a spoiled brat.) It is as if it snuck up on me. I'm really glad it did, for I discovered that fear is not the enemy. It is merely the perceived absence of Love. It is our reminder that love has not been allowed into the situation. I reminded my friend of this, and we shared a silent moment together.

Let Love in.

Forgive the perceived transgression and discover the freedom of letting them off the hook. You will find peace in giving forgiveness. It is the one thing you have to give even if you think there is nothing left to give.

Forgiveness heals.

It is the best prescription for any pain, whether real or perceived. In forgiving I make the conscious decision to let love in and let go of expectations about what happens next. I control nothing except my choices.

I choose love. It feels really good. And feeling good means healing has begun.

My friend's story is not over, and neither is he. He is attempting to re-present himself in a new light. I wish him well. I love him, too.

I love you. -- jb