There are days when my heart is overwhelmed. I long for something, yet nothing in particular. Usual work and activities no longer satisfy my soul cravings, and there’s an internal gnawing that will not give me rest.
It is here, in these moments, I am discovering the healing presence of beauty. Beauty has a way of feeding my soul and soothing the ache of my heart. And all that is required of me is to simply be present to it. When I’m distressed, the power of this presence is what I long for.
Sometimes this beauty comes through good music or just taking an extra moment to enjoy the sunshine. It might also come through the presence of a friend or lover.
For instance, a good friend of mine died last year and I’m realizing what I miss the most is his presence. Regardless of what we were doing, just hanging out together was good.
It is easy for me to forget the power of presence. Instead of opening more to God, my relationships, and the world around me, I tend to keep busy, merely checking off each day’s to-do list. This is easier than trying to discern the deep movements of my heart.
For a while, this works, but eventually the ache will not be ignored. At first, it comes mostly in quiet moments, at night or first thing in the morning. Soon desire sneaks up on me throughout the day, and before long it has my full attention.
When I finally remember to pay attention and open to the presence of Love (in all its many and rich forms) my soul is refreshed. It is like basking in the warmth of the sunshine after a cold and rainy day. A lot of weariness can be avoided by simply remembering to rest in the presence of Love.
This is true in marriage as well.
Husbands, there is power in being present with your wife when she’s having a bad day, without trying to fix whatever the concern is, explain it, or justify it. Simply be with her (and maybe let her feel your presence through a warm hug). Your presence can calm and soothe her heart.
Wives, you can bring much joy to your husbands when there is no pressure to talk and you are simply present with him as he works on a project or watches a game, for example. Your presence can revive and inspire his soul.
When we believe our worth is depended only on what we do, we forget the gift, the power, and the beauty of our very presence. Our presence can bring healing and restoration to the world.
When you grow weary, remember to open to the presence of Love. Remember also to offer the gift of your presence to others.
Your deep presence may be their only moment of peace in the middle of a stressful and chaotic day, a gift of love in the midst of life’s many heartaches.
How has the presence of another brought love/healing/peace to you? How will you be more intentional about offering your presence to others?
