[Note: The following meditation was written by Cathy Self, Sr. V.P. of the Baptist Healing Trust]

   In an internet missive that has probably circulated the
globe several times, the innocence of Love is shared through the eyes and
hearts of 4 – 8 year olds who were asked “What does love mean?” A couple of
comments really caught my eye:
“When someone loves
you, the way they say your name is different. You just know that you name is
safe in their mouth.” – Billy, age 4. 

“Love is when your
puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day.” Mary Ann – age 4.

   In light of Erie’s recent meditation on silent presence, an
entry from yet another 4 year-old (is that the truest age of magic and wisdom?)
speaks volumes to this much older but not as wise woman:

   An elderly neighbor
had recently lost his wife. One day, upon seeing the man cry, the little boy
went into the old gentleman’s yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there.
   When his Mother asked
what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said, “Nothing, I just helped
him cry.” The shared presence of this little boy’s love was all that was
needed, and somehow this young and wise heart understood that. 

   Among my favorite readings are the writings of Rachel
Remen, M.D. (left), a noted oncologist and healer. In one of her offerings, the
idea that we are enough is shared. “Healing is not the work of experts”, says
Dr. Remen. “Healing does not require our intent; often we heal others simply because of who we are [emphasis
mine]. Curing is the work of experts, but strengthening the life in one another
is the work of human beings. Sometimes the deepest healing comes from the
natural fit between two wounded people’s lives.”
   Perhaps the boy of 4 had already grasped the craving for
love that resides in every heart. Maybe he responded as he did because he had
not yet taken on the fear, cynicism, and arrogance of older age. I wonder, what
would I do – what will I do – when
next I sense need in another? Will I simply allow my presence to be enough?