Many years ago, I had the occasion to be on the brunt end of another’s anger. “You’re always putting yourself in the midst of it;” he yelled. “Why don’t you learn to back off?”

We had been friends for years, as such – I didn’t understand his upset. I mean, doesn’t friendship ‘require’ a sense of inter-being? I let his words stew, until – I could finally take no more. I left assuming he’d wanted nothing more to do with me.

I didn’t understand at the time, that friendship comprises far more than interaction. Rather, it represents a space for shared understanding.

Though, what does that mean? And, how is it effected?

From the Four Noble Truths, we are reminded of these aspects of love: that is must embody loving-kindness, equanimity and non-discrimination. Extending that further, we must offer ourselves in service – and to the prosperity of building the elements of true love.

“Darling, I am here for you…”

Being ‘here’ requires that we place the needs of another before that of our own. Not to overwhelm, rather – to establish balance. That’s the root of all true relationships, a balance forged from the expression of integrity, honesty and love.

And, yet – how quickly we lose ourselves within the ‘sting’ of a few simple words. We forget that even the harshest of words are born from tender source.

It is only through balance that we discover our wholeness.

In peace…

Namaste ❤️