We all deserve to be loved, to be seen, and to be heard, maybe not for who we are, but for who we could be if given the opportunity.
We are all imperfect beings. We are flawed, frail, weak, and broken in some way or another. Beyond or beneath these shortcomings and failings, even in spite of them, is something perfect, something special, and something divine.
It is this essence of potential that we should be looking for in others. It is this possibility of being that, whenever possible, we should see, hear, nurture, and trust. Looking past someone’s weakness, mistakes, and failures, to see depth, complexity, and light, that is true generosity.
This requires us taking the longview and it requires us being patient, forgiving, and compassionate, even when it is inconvenient to do so, especially when it is inconvenient to do so. The ability to be generous, gracious, and kind to and for the potential of others is the essence of what it means to love. Loving in this way is often difficult, but it is our only hope for finding depth and fulfillment.
Holistic Budo: As it is in budo, so too it is in life. As it is in life, so too it is in budo.
Robert Van Valkenburgh is co-founder of Taikyoku Mind & Body and Kogen Dojo where he teaches Taikyoku Budo and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, as well as a founding member of the Severna Park and Baltimore Holistic Chamber of Commerce.
Street art photo taken by Robert Van Valkenburgh, artist unknown unless otherwise noted.
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