Magical things can take place right before you if you choose to open your heart and notice them. I say this in regards to a bizarre, yet beautiful soul who rode the bus with me today. Yes, this is another story of my observation of people on a bus that resonated with me. But first, let me share a few things that were already on my mind.
For the past week, I have been meditating on positive affirmations each morning. It's basically a list of things I tell myself with the goal of integrating them into my life and fully trusting that they are true. For example, the last affirmation on my list that I've been telling myself each morning is, "I am loving."
I sometimes think that the older I get, I feel like most everyone I meet is some version of someone I've already met before. I even had the horrible realization that I too often judge people negatively who I've come across with on a regular basis. I've been handicapping myself into this view of 'me versus them'. There are three things wrong with this: 1) 'versus' implies that people are out to hurt me in some way. 2) 'them' condenses everyone except myself into one group; it's an arrogant way of thinking because everyone is unique and has stories that I wouldn't even imagine. 3) it isolates me in a way that can harm my potential to connect with people. How can I be more loving if I continue to think this way?
As a way to try and combat this crippling negativity, I told several strangers "I love you" today. Alright, so it wasn't out loud, but in my mind. But on the way home on the bus this afternoon, there was a man who did say it out loud. On the same day I begin my philosophical quest to discover what it means to be more loving, God has already prepared a lesson.
When the man got on the bus, he addressed everyone. I couldn't quote him word for word, but he said things like, "How are you all doing? I love you all. I got you. You've been through a lot. I got you." I think a lot of people would say that this man is crazy, and he probably was honestly, but I think he said what I needed to hear in that moment. He moved me and I even teared up a little. He addressed everyone, but he looked at individuals. What was also amazing, is that another man was brave enough to tell him that he loved him too. How beautiful is that? Two strangers sharing the love.
We don't have to know everyone's stories, their history, or anything for that matter in order to love them. Seriously, we don't. Love them because they are human, just like you. I am saddened when I hear the word "hate" get thrown around like it's just some curse word. If I hated anything, it would be hate itself. To me, hate is the opposite of love therefore how can you have room in your heart to love someone if you hate them? Love your enemies too. I know it may sound like a hippie thing to say or naïve even, but I still understand anger. You can be angry at someone and still love them. You can never want to see a certain person again and still love them. You can love a perfect stranger. It is possible. As you go along for the ride that is your life, tell yourself "I am loving" and be open to discover how to be just that.
