I WANT TO BE A BRIDGE BUILDER
Love is the only force capable of transforming an enemy into a friend. — Martin Luther King Jr.
At the end of the day, isn’t life better when we show love toward others? Isn’t it better to forgive others? In the words of Rodney King, “can’t we just all get along?”
To love is to walk hand in hand with humility. A daily journey. An hourly journey. It’s not easy, especially when you start looking at social media. And especially, when that person on social media is spewing contrary beliefs that you may have. And even worse, when that person is someone you love and care about.
It sucks. It hurts and you probably want to ‘get back at them’ for causing pain to you. Even though indirectly and probably not intentionally. But, even if it was intentional, could you give love rather than animosity?
One is loved because one is loved. No reason is needed for loving. — Paulo Coelho
I love sitting down with older, wiser people. When I’m with them, it feels like the world slows down and everything falls into place. It seems like they never rush or hurry. They’ve seen everything under the sun and act accordingly. I always wonder, where does this stoic behavior come from and why aren’t more younger people like this? Maybe it’s the hustle? Maybe they are still learning the balance of patience and action? I don’t really know, I just know, they live a better life.
When I view the landscape of the world we live in, I know for sure I need more love. Not just love for my family but love for everyone. Some may call it compassion or empathy, but whatever it is, I need it and want it. These are vital ingredients to creating a pathway for my future.
I guess what I’m trying to say today is, take a deep breath and be thankful for what is good in your life. Yes, politics sucks. Yes, religion sucks. Yes, hearing conflicting views from your friends sucks but can’t we all just get along?
I want to get through this year, look back and say, “well done Anthony, you kept your cool with wisdom and grace.” I don’t want to have a year of burning bridges and taking 2021 and the years ahead to rebuild all of those bridges.
Speaking of bridges, here’s a fantastic quote from one of my favorites, TD Jakes.
I like to see myself as a bridge builder, that is me building bridges between people, between races, between cultures, between politics, trying to find common ground. — T. D. Jakes
Today I want to learn and do better at building bridges. Not just today, but everyday. My desire is to get 1% better at building bridges. That’s my goal and that’s what I’m learning today.
Sorry this one isn’t so fantastic today. May even seem a bit dull. However, this is what’s in my heart today for me. Maybe it inspires you to build in your life as well.
Keep learning. a.
