As an aid worker, I’ve witnessed the darkest corners of the world, where fear seems to dominate. Yet, amidst the rubble and despair, I’ve come to know that love is not just a fleeting emotion; it’s a force that persists, resilient and ever-present, waiting for us to notice its subtle manifestations.
Imagine love as light, casting its gentle glow on everything it touches. Darkness, then, is not a force but an absence, a void waiting to be filled. Like the cracks in the pavement and how the resilient, little plants push through the concrete—signs that love always finds a way to break through, to show up in unexpected places.
Navigating through war zones and crisis-ridden areas, I’ve learned that love is never absent; it’s sometimes hidden, concealed beneath the surface. It’s in the kindness of strangers offering a helping hand, in the resilience of communities coming together amidst adversity. Love finds a way, always.
The world we live in today is fraught with conflict, fighting, and unhappiness. It can be challenging to see the light amid the darkness. However, just like the cracks in the pavement, love seeps through, waiting for us to notice its presence. It’s a matter of tuning in and paying attention.
In the same way that covering light creates darkness, sometimes the chaos of life can temporarily overshadow love. But make no mistake, love is there, waiting for us to lift the veil of fear and acknowledge its existence.
The Love-Noticing Experiment
Over the next 24 hours, I challenge you to notice love. Here are some exercises you can try to reveal where love is hiding in plain sight.
- Gratitude Journaling: Take a few minutes in the morning or before bed to jot down three things you’re grateful for. They can be small gestures, moments of kindness, or the beauty of nature.
- Acts of Kindness: Perform a small act of kindness for someone—a friend, a colleague, or even a stranger. Notice how it makes both you and the recipient feel.
- Mindful Observation: Throughout the day, consciously observe your surroundings. Notice the small acts of love around you, whether it’s a smile, a helping hand, or the beauty of nature.
- Guided Visualization: Visit the resources page on my site for a collection of guided visualizations designed to help you tune into the love that surrounds you. Take a few moments to immerse yourself in these audio experiences, allowing your mind to explore the cracks of light where love resides.
As you embark on this journey of noticing love, remember that even in the most challenging circumstances, love has the power to find its way. It’s in the cracks of light, in the resilient plants breaking through the concrete. Choose love over fear, and let its presence guide you toward strength, courage, and wisdom.
