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Put love into practice!

A friend texted me on August 20th to let me know that Tony Scott had committed suicide.

 Tony Scott? I know that name from somewhere. 

 Once I googled him, I knew immediately who it was. I've been following the press ever since.

I was mostly interested in how those who knew him professionally or personally were affected by his death.

This morning, I read The DailyLove.com. Mastin Kipp wrote an entry called:

How can you extend Love to a total stranger today? . 


Right up my alley. 

He mentioned his thoughts and reactions to Tony's death.  Even more powerfully, Mastin reminds us that we don't know what someone is battling personally, how to find love in this situation, and how to offer to others- even a total stranger. 

I wanted to take an opportunity to share some thoughts.

When somebody famous dies or their personal struggles are publicized, the feedback is usually extremely negative. I have recently learned that feedback is simply information- it's the interpretation that makes it positive or negative. So, the following is my interpretation.

I remember being so disgusted when I read people's facebook and other media forums when Amy Winehouse and Whitney Houston died. I wondered: where were peoples's sense of compassion and love in these situations?  I have since examined my own personal feelings and experience with loved ones with addictions and was able to gain some clarity.

I love what Mastin offers. Whether it is Tony Scott, Whitney Houston, Amy Winehouse, your best friend, the stranger in Footlocker, Everyone is battling something.

Yes, we all have the power of choice in our own lives. I am not advocating or minimizing that. I have recently learned that in my own personal journey.

From my personal experience, I have found that love has been the best response to situations beyond my control.

When you leave information and your response up to the media outlets, humanity can be stripped from anyone. (that's a whole other conversation)

I want to offer this:

At the end of the day, if you or someone you know has suffered from addictions, depression or have  struggled emotionally, they are in need of your love.

 I remember how much love and kindness helped to remind me that I mattered.

We are all in need of love. I promise, if you choose love first to yourself, then to others, it's a WIN/WIN!

Love is often measured in extreme ways. I've learned to see love as more than just a feeling, but as a daily spiritual practice. First, with myself and then with others.

There's a lot mentioned in this entry- but all loving, open and powerful thoughts/words from my heart.

 With love,
Erika 
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