So, we took a drive.

This one is about relationship.
mostly things I've challenged myself with thinking through.
life, circumstances, people, places...all of these things change, in my experience, quite frequently.

I think if you want to know how to really love someone... care enough to listen.

Since this past Sunday evening after a very detailed and open conversation with a new friend of mine. I started thinking back to all of my relationships as they were. Where have I set my boundaries just right, not far enough, too far and worse where were there none when there should have been some?

I figured out I enjoy one on one conversation much more than a group setting. In a group any bigger than 5 people I feel overwhelmed and confused and my mouth starts trying to compensate while my poor brain tries to keep up by changing the subject or turning what my mouth messed up into a joke (not all attempts successful).
It's a mess, a fun one but a mess nonetheless.

In a one on one scenario the pressure to perform is off, boundaries can be clearly drawn and trust can be established (for me). That's when I shine! I met a friend, over Thanksgiving break, He's probably one of the most incredible men I know. He's an artist, a musician and carries the weight of a man who knows what honor is. I don't think I'd have near the love and appreciation I have for him had we not spent that one on one time together the first weekend we met. Since I've known him we've developed a great friendship and a high regard for each other and a willingness to be open and share what's on our hearts. I LOVE it!

Now, Sunday evening is really what got this thought stirring. That day had been a real sweet day. The presence of the Lord was thick and just all over me! So, after church I decided to come home get into my house clothes and just soak in it. Not a half hour into it I heard a familiar voice. I crept out of my dark room and noticed our friend was visiting. I decided to join the conversation for just a bit. That turned into a drive. The two of us drove up into the hills of Vacaville just talking and listening. We returned to my apartment a continued for about an hour or so. I got to know who he was in his heart, where he came from and what life is and was like for him.

I've been in similar situations and I always leave with a deep and new love and appreciation for my friend.

which leads me to the question. is it vulnerability that draws us closer and sustains us?

I, for one, think it is. We by no means should be completely open up and be vulnerable to everyone we meet. But, if you are looking to build a relationship then real trust and an awareness of who the other really is should be established.

I think love is sharing, listening and caring enough to hold that information like it's a treasure not to be used to damage the other, but to be used to see them for how victorious and amazing they actually are.

I have resolved to love with a deeper understanding of who I am loving.