SWEETNESS

Sweetness is a simple little word, but carries with it great power. When we think of sweetness, we can be drawn back into memories of childhood: perhaps an ice cream cone on a warm summer's day, or our favorite dessert prepared for memorable family holidays. An experience of sweetness can trigger a host of wonderful memories that bless us anew each time we experience it in little things and in big events. It is the meaning we find in the small moments, in the dear and tender relationships, in the “victories” and beauties that continually present themselves to us if we simply take a moment to savor the precious in the day to day. It is a gift, simple but precious nonetheless. 

I remember a dear friend of many years ago, someone I have not seen in many years. When I think of him, I immediately think of sweetness, for in his presence all those years ago I passed some of the dearest and most meaningful moments in my life. When I look back on that time now I realize that, together, we were almost like innocents playing in a beautiful garden, and the precious moments we spent together held peace, beauty and serenity … the likes of which I have seldom experienced since. That, in itself, makes that memory even more treasured and dear. During moments of challenge I look back on that time and feel a certain comfort that carries me away for a moment on a wave of pure bliss … sweetness.

Sweetness can also be defined by the way we decide to show up in life. We can choose to show a tender side, a kind side and turn a blind eye to the shortcomings that inevitably show up in our relationships. Disappointment is a lack of that sweetness. But to linger in disappointment is a true waste because it keeps us tied to those very people and events we need to release into the love of the sweet and beautiful power that created us. Is it odd to think of God as sweet? I don’t think so. I like to think that there is a playful and simple energy associated with the creator of all that is. And, surely a kind and sweet approach to life is inspired by that loving and sometimes playful creator.

So when I awake each morning to begin my day, how do I do that? Do I do it mired in the frustrations of moments that are not where I am now … in memories of pain and sorrow, frustration and even anger? If that is the case, then surely I am robbing my life of its sweetness, of its joy, of its promise of fulfillment. When I change my perspective from “sour” to “sweet” all kinds of possibilities present themselves to me: healing, wonder, delight, adventure, wisdom, understanding, forgiveness.

So, do not underestimate the power of sweetness. It has a huge impact on the ordinary and mundane. Like love, it opens the door to a new perspective, a fresh approach, maybe even a kinder and more loving way of showing up in the world. Choose to sprinkle a little sweetness in your relationships, in your perspective, in your thoughts, in everyday activities … and watch the magic it can cause to unfold in your life.