Jar Full of Love
2015 has been a difficult year for many of us. We have faced an insurmountable amount of loss and are in a state of questioning humanity and how to reconcile our differences with one another. It can be difficult to believe in something when challenging times arise. There’s a strong desire to find purpose within ourselves and give empathy to others, but we just can’t seem to figure out how.
Despite the sadness and the longing for something more, there is still a lot to hope for and more importantly, believe in.
Throughout this year, there has been a lot of loss within my circle of family and friends. I have had trouble finding the right way to heal from these losses in addition to my own internal struggles. But one evening, I decided to make this jar, and my perspective on life began to alter slowly but surely. I filled this jar with names of friends and family. Some that I talk to on a regular basis, some from traveling, others I wish I talked to more often, those who have passed away, and individuals I wanted to mend relationships with. Little did I know, this jar would change my life and teach me some powerful lessons. It’s amazing what a jar, some pieces of paper, and a pen can do.
The Genie only gave Aladdin three wishes, but I’m given an infinite amount each day through this jar of love. It’s been the best way to find healing from this year and to start my day. Each day I pick someone new and I think about them throughout the day. That day is dedicated entirely to them. I’ll call them, text them, or if we’re in the same city, I’ll ask them if they’re free to hangout soon. I wish nothing but the best for them, I pray for them, and I send them all the good energy.
The altruistic simplicity of this jar has helped me to believe again. It’s taught me that although we face periods of emptiness and longing, each day should be lived with gratitude because there is still so much good left in the world if we take the time to remind ourselves of it.
Each day, I’m reminded of the graces each of these individuals have placed in my life. 2 Corinthians 4:16-17 says, “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
And this could not be more true right now.
It doesn’t matter if any of these people in my jar are religious or are struggling with their faith because they have taught me to have faith again and recognize the goodness in others. They’ve taught me that the smallest act of kindness can ripple into something far greater than we could ever imagine. They have this ability of being able to accept me past my flaws and the mistakes that I’ve made. And I’m so thankful for the safe space they’ve created to allow heartache and despair to be shared.
If you’re struggling to make sense of this year or anything that has happened to you, I encourage you to make your own jar of love. Fill it with names of people, pets, places, or other aspects of your life that mean a lot to you. Give it time and allow this jar to mend broken relationships, heal you, and teach you to believe again. Life is far too short to be angry and holding grudges.
To those who have passed away, I think about you everyday and pray you are resting in peace.
For the friends and family who have gotten me through one of the most difficult years yet, thank you for being you and for providing me with your unyielding love and support. Can’t imagine where I’d be without any of you.
For the future friend reading this, I hope you are able to find peace in this world and that our paths cross someday so we can share stories about heartache and triumph and learn from one another.
We have 37 days left in 2015. Let’s finish strong, have faith, and keep believing in the goodness of others.