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I recently watched the movie, Precious, based upon the best-selling book, Push, by author Sapphire. While watching the film, I found myself thinking more and more about how so many of our children grow up without feeling love, or intimately knowing–not reading or watching, but knowing–the pain of abuse and neglect. Several times during the film, I wanted to cover my eyes and retreat to a space where I wouldn’t have to confront old demons, wrestle with new ones, and think about what the challenge is for those of us with the power to change the structures that perpetuate abuse or the social networks that continue to turn away from the abuse, pretending that it only happens to “those people” without acknowledging that “those” people are us.
I’ve written before about my own struggle with abuse, but I’m increasingly reminded of how many young women continue to live this haunting reality of being overfed physically, underfed emotionally and spiritually, and left to be exploited on the street or relegated to some other less fortunate state. And though these afflictions may vary, the lingering loneliness and acceptance of that inhumanity can be the same…hiding what is precious inside, corrupting our interpretation of what is important, sacred, and beautiful in the form of LOVE for human spirit and life.
The movie, Precious, reminded me that love is a powerful feeling; but it is also a tool.
In a previous post, I mentioned that I once heard noted attorney and justice advocate James Bell describe justice as the practice of “structural love in public.” I continue to process that statement, and reflect upon the power of love–not only as a feeling, but as a tool to improve the conditions of our lives, our families, our communities, and our ability to thrive as responsible beings on this earth.
When we love ourselves, we eat right. We don’t poison ourselves with food or drink that will prevent the accomplishment of good deeds and positive thought.
When we love our children, we practice guidance. We demonstrate for them what it is to be a whole person and give them the tools to understand who they are and what their capabilities are when they apply themselves.
When we love our families, we practice forgiveness. We hold them in the bond that holds us together and give them permission to be human, and to recover as humans do.
When we love our communities, we believe that we are worthy of clean streets and a working infrastructure to support a quality of life commensurate with the capacity of this wealthy nation. We understand that community is the coming together of many to form a single unit–and that together, we form a strong and power force for change.
When we love humanity, we respect the earth as a gift and seek to prolong (not destroy or undermine) life by celebrating the process–and cycle–of growth and maturity.
…and ALL of that is precious.
Here’s to the practice of LOVE in 2010. Happy New Year!
Copyright 2010 Monique W. Morris
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