I have been enjoying the stunning beauty of cardinals lately. I especially love seeing their brilliant red feathers against a white backdrop of snow but am also just happy to see them in whatever setting they show up. Something about them gives me a sense of hope and joy regardless of how dreary a day it may be.
Today is Valentine’s Day. Red and pink marks this day and reminds me of love in its various forms. I love the “pink” kind of love — sentimental, mushy, romantic with notes on my pillow or flowers on the table or a surprise breakfast. That’s always nice. But even more fulfilling is the “red” type that’s steady, ever present, nondramatic, and deep. This kind of love nourishes over a lifetime. It’s sacrificial and one I can count on despite life’s ups and downs. It may or may not come from a partner. It may come from a dear friend or a beloved pet or a sense of the Divine while out in nature. This kind of love is holy and respectful, merciful, and honors the person we each are. It’s a love I need and aspire to give. We are safe in this kind of love.
I am struck that today is also Ash Wednesday — the beginning of Lent that culminates in Christ’s death and resurrection. Christ’s love is certainly the “red” kind. Sacrificial. Respectful. Merciful. Honoring of who we are … and who we are meant to be.
This Valentine’s Day, may we embrace and be embraced by the love of Ash Wednesday, the love of Christ for you and for me.
~ Terri
Top photo of male cardinal, public domain, pixabay.com
Lower photo of The Trinity woodcarving in El Rosario Church, San Salvador, El Salvador by Charles Geiser