Consider the human heart:
It is a small chambered vessel; perhaps one whose finite capacity we choose to guard jealously; allocating space only to those closest to us, whom we deem most worthy, or who have shown us unusual kindness?
Maybe we expand it to include family, clan, ethnic group, maybe nationality. But we maintain boundaries between those we allow in, and those we keep out.
But the heart is also a muscle, which—through a lifelong program of vigorous exercise—may become strong enough to continually open up, and grow in capacity.
Each representation is valid, of course, but they are not equal. The first leads to atrophy and failure, when the heart is ultimately unable to do even the little we ask of it. The second view leads to growth and vitality, and the ability to not only carry our own load, but to help others bear theirs.
If we choose the latter, we need not look far to find role models for our training; Christ, the Dalai Lama, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Junior, Thich Nhat Hanh - many others we randomly encounter, without even noticing. If we open our eyes, it’s clear that we’re surrounded by workout partners.
Our choices are clear.
Consider your human heart.
When we open our hearts to another, it need not be at the expense of those we already hold within.
ReplyDeleteRather, it often enhances our existing affections to expand our circle, and share the warmth of our fire.