The Pain of Loving

Above is the title of a book I read years ago, written by a certain Guillamette.

Especially this hearts’ special day when we greet everyone “happy valentines day to you!,” how come “pain“?

The longing to be with one’s beloved, the unmet expectations from a spouse, not having said “I love you” often enough, the regret in a careless word said in anger, not having spent quality time with those we value, the loss of a friendship or respect for someone, the need to discipline a wayward child, the cry of a child in pain, the waiting for the safe coming home of a working son, and many more. Because we love, we feel pain.

The reality is, the more we love, the more we are vulnerable to feel pain for or because of the beloved. We hang on to every word or deed of this special person in our life. Very human, yet also very divine.

Imagine GOD looking over us 24/7. This means GOD The FATHER, The SON, and The HOLY SPIRIT also waits in painful anticipation for us. Though HE has no need for us, HE wants our love and attention. A thought would please HIM. A “Hi!”, more so. A celebration with HIM through the Eucharist is a physical oneness with HIM. And to live and love like HIM, that would be pure joy to HIM!

It is sad, but a reality, that we take GOD for granted too often. And when we grow older and somewhat wiser, we will realise that true life can only be with GOD.

Our success and status, and whatever else, take second place. Near death’s door, we know that our credentials will not earn us a place in heaven, nor our money buy us a front seat in the court of GOD.

With GOD’s merciful wisdom given to the old and feeble, let us love GOD back now, whatever age we have.
The human heart is made for loving. Fashioned after its CREATOR, our hearts will inevitably seek HIM WHO formed it.

Freely, consciously and unconditionally, let us love GOD the best way we can. Simple and undemanding of man, GOD is pleased with a sincere heart. No frills, just a heart open to HIS holy will.

We love YOU LORD through the Sacred Heart of JESUS, and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. To YOU be all glory, and honour, and praise!

With this, we can read author Guillamette’s book entitled “The Joy of Loving.” Happy Valentines Day to all! (Bella A. Sarenas)