ReMindEd   •   March 21, 2017

I found it interesting in looking for an image of love revolution how many had clenched fists and gritted teeth. I know the word revolution is often associated with fighting or war or overturning powers at be. Perhaps that’s the problem right there.

Why do we associate change with a fight?

I follow a prominent women’s rights activist, actually I follow several, and was saddened when the latest strategy in response to a new President was the word woman under a rather nasty word. I get what she was trying to do. In her words: raise an army of women who will put their boots on and stand for women’s freedom. Hey I’m in that cause as much as anyone with the daily work I do as a mental health therapist, and in raising three daughters as strong in who they are, and a son who will treat women well… But nothing about being ‘nasty’ resonated with me. I don’t think that’s what it takes for change to happen- at least not the type of change I’m interested in contributing to.

A love revolution needs to be fuelled by love, not hate!

Just to clarify, I think most ‘fighters’ in the example above aren’t actually operating from a place of hate. But I assume some of them have been hurt, and mistreated, and are afraid of being hurt again, so I’d summise they are operating from a place of hurt. I have worked with many people, who start from a place of hurt, develop a strong sense of justice, and often hate the injustice. So yes, hurt often follows with hate. And I’d still suggest, love can’t coexist with hatred.

It is time to choose your position: love or hurt. You can’t stand on both sides.

To clarify, the two aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive or two extremes of a line- there is a whole middle ground between both points, where the waters are muddied and grey. I guess I’m trying to say that love is, or can be, of more pure form than that, and perhaps should be… And I’m not usually one to use shoulds. I just think love deserves to be more accurately represented than closed fists and clenched teeth, because I certainly wouldn’t want a love like that.

Does this mean love is weak? I’d obviously say not, and would question why we equate strength as displayed in battle. Is it not stronger to stand firm in the midst of a storm rather than fight against it?

I watched the incredible movie: Hacksaw Ridge, and for those who have seen it, need I say more… For those who haven’t, you should. Hmmm, there’s that word again… 😉

Religious conviction aside, what strength of that main character, to not fight but to instead work to save lives. That is the definition of love. It’s a saving not a fighting, it’s a giving not a taking. LOVE.

I’d encourage you, work out your definition of love. The strong kind. The pure version.

Are we walking in love or hurt?

Perhaps it is that simple of a choice. If so, choose love. It may just save your life!

And that, is the start of my thoughts around what I’ve penned to be: the love revolution!

For love,

Sal

@remindedmind

#alwaysforfreedom

#bravenewyear