I recall a scene from Sylvester Stallone’s last Rocky movie in 2007,
Rocky Balboa. Through circumstances, Rocky had met up with the little girl, Marie, who had once said to him several years earlier, “Screw you, Creepo.” At the time, Rocky was expressing his heartfelt concern about Lil’ Marie’s choices and lifestyle, and where they might lead. Like all of us, Marie had a life to discover for herself and, at the time, she really didn’t understand how much Rocky really cared. And as time would have it,
life goes on. . .
Rocky Balboa. Through circumstances, Rocky had met up with the little girl, Marie, who had once said to him several years earlier, “Screw you, Creepo.” At the time, Rocky was expressing his heartfelt concern about Lil’ Marie’s choices and lifestyle, and where they might lead. Like all of us, Marie had a life to discover for herself and, at the time, she really didn’t understand how much Rocky really cared. And as time would have it,
life goes on. . .
Now it’s some twenty years later and as their platonic friendship develops, Rocky extends a series of kind gestures and opportunities toward Marie and her teenage son. He even offers Marie a hostess job at his restaurant. At one point, Marie says to Rocky, “Why are you being so nice to me – you don’t owe me nothin’?” Rocky replies, “Why do you gotta owe somethin’ just to get somethin’?” In a short period of time, Rocky’s care, friendship, sincerity and appreciation for Marie becomes apparent
to her and a true heartfelt friendship that never was – now is.
to her and a true heartfelt friendship that never was – now is.
I get the feeling that our spouses, partners,
loved-ones, friends and associates would truly feel
more loved, cared for and appreciated, IF. . .
loved-ones, friends and associates would truly feel
more loved, cared for and appreciated, IF. . .
We were to just tell them that we love them, care for them, or that we simply appreciate "WHO" they are in our life. . . And to do that just
"Out of the Blue," for no particular reason, or for any specific occasion – but rather, to do that at any given moment in time,
on any given day.
"Out of the Blue," for no particular reason, or for any specific occasion – but rather, to do that at any given moment in time,
on any given day.
When we feel (or sense) that we have to "earn" someone’s love, care and appreciation, the love we then receive isn’t nearly as gratifying as when we're loved, cared for and appreciated, just for who we are. Although hopefully well intended, the typical “I Love You” that we often hear from each other at the end of a phone conversation, before we go to work, or before we go to sleep, isn’t nearly as deep and meaningful as an “I Love YOU” that comes from deep within someone’s heart at an unexpected moment. Love is best when it’s spontaneous and free. Perhaps indeed, there’s something about that thought, “The Truth will set you free”. . . perhaps even to Truly Love.
Maybe with just a little effort, each of us can learn how to freely and openly express our love, care and appreciation for our friends, relatives, associates, and even for that “Special Someone” who is a part of our lives. Regardless of our personal “Love Languages,” words are important and communication is essential for loving, meaningful, lasting, healthy
and healing relationships.
and healing relationships.
Granted, words are just a start. Without the follow-up of “I mean (and
am willing to show you) that I mean what I say – that it’s REAL,” then perhaps our words alone can feel empty. Still, it starts with the Heart. . . and every (one) Heart Matters. For it is said that, “Out of your mouth, proceeds the words from your heart.” In as much, words can fill us or they can empty us – words can build us up or they can tear us down – words can bring joy or cause sorrow – words can heal or they can destroy. Maybe we should all pray, regularly, “Lord, teach me how to Love.”
am willing to show you) that I mean what I say – that it’s REAL,” then perhaps our words alone can feel empty. Still, it starts with the Heart. . . and every (one) Heart Matters. For it is said that, “Out of your mouth, proceeds the words from your heart.” In as much, words can fill us or they can empty us – words can build us up or they can tear us down – words can bring joy or cause sorrow – words can heal or they can destroy. Maybe we should all pray, regularly, “Lord, teach me how to Love.”
I think God knows something about communication. . . maybe that’s why Jesus is referred to as The Word of Life. God wants to personally show us how much He cares and Loves us. His intent is to communicate with each of us, directly, to have a relationship with Him so that we might learn how to communicate with, care for, appreciate and love others. Let’s all consider calling, sending a card, emailing or visiting someone today just to tell them, “I Love You,” or “I appreciate You,” or “I Care for You”. . . “Just Because – You Are. . . WHO You Are.”
Attached below is a link to a truly wonderful short video (3-minutes long) that I'm hoping you'll take the time to watch. It's a true story that really touched my heart and I'm praying it will touch yours, as well.
R Butch David
