I wrote this last night.
It’s a Don McClean song (actually it was written by Boudleaux Bryant and first recorded by the Everly Brothers in July 1960), but of course it goes much wider.
Loss, lament, lust.
My childhood was cold but that was pretty normal when your parents had been cast adrift by dint of World War II. But it meant when it came to my turn the veneer started to atrophy to the point where I had a severe disability to give and receive love.
It took me a long time to realise this wasn’t normal. My wife showed me what it meant not to judge or criticise and to be loved for who I was, warts and all.
And then there are relationships. There’s a world of difference between the unconditional and transactional type. Sadly, too many fall into the latter category.
The bigger picture: if we truly loved the world then we’d stop fouling our life-supporting nest. In fact, it’s likely we’d get down on our knees and pray for forgiveness.
How we arrive at a place of unconditional love still remains a mystery. Being open, vulnerable and with no agenda is easier said than done. I’ve no answers but perhaps we need to start a conversation where we lead with love and not with some egoic agenda.
Much to ponder — as always.
Love you all.