I Love You
Three words.
If I haven't told you lately, I do.
We are on this journey together, and we have spoken about how we are there for each other through hurt, pain, sadness, shame, and whatever we encounter on this path.
This path to discover who we are and who we are going to be.
I have told you that we are together, that we are going to support each other, that HE is with us, that He loves us, but you need to know that I love you too.
Those three words play such a role in our lives. From that first person you say them to, to the person you withhold them from when you're angry.
Those three words are so complicated.
For many years, I didn’t say those words to my father, not because we had issues. In fact, even when we drove each other nuts, we always got along. I loved my father, and he loved me, but we just didn’t say them.
I remember making the decision to make sure he knew after he had a heart attack. It was awkward at first. I think I took him by surprise, but he said it back. After years of just knowing we loved each other, now we say it.
Just to share the words with each other lets the other know that we are here, that we are together in this, and that we will always be there for each other.
So I say them to you: I love you.
Who are you thinking about right now? Is there someone you haven't spoken to in a while? Have you told that person that you love them?
Last week, we spoke about those potholes in our journey. Are they holding you back? Are you allowing shame, hurt, sadness, and pain to keep you from sharing those words with someone?
I understand. Remember, I walk this journey as well, and I have had some major potholes in my path. Some that broke my heart.
Take a moment this week and fill in those holes. Seek those people out and tell them you love them. It doesn’t mean you forgive them. It doesn’t mean you are not still hurt, but it will help you on your journey.
Remember, the Father sent His Son for us. He bled for us, and during all of it, He loved us and forgave us. He said He loved us.
I wish I could fill in that hole that took me so long to get over. I only wish I could tell my granddaughter that I love her.
Some day I will.
In my Father’s heaven.
Talk again soon. Until then… I love you, and keep walking.
