Who knows, maybe those two rogue leaders, Gandhi and Jesus, were right-a loving response changes the people who would beat the shit out of you, including yourself, of course. Their way, of the heart, makes everything bigger. Decency and goodness are subversively folded into the craziness, like caramel ribbons into ice cream. Otherwise, it's about me, and my bile ducts, and how unique I am and how I've suffered. And that is what hell is like.
In her book "Small Victories: Spotting Improbable Moments of Grace," Anne Lamott reflects on the teachings of figures like Gandhi and Jesus, suggesting that a response rooted in love can profoundly impact not only others but also oneself. Such a loving approach, she posits, enhances our experiences and relationships, allowing decency and goodness to infiltrate our chaotic lives. This perspective teaches us that love can serve as a transformative power amidst turmoil.
Lamott contrasts this loving way with a more self-centered mindset focused solely on personal struggles and uniqueness, which she describes as a form of hell. By emphasizing our suffering and individuality, we limit ourselves to a narrow view of existence. Instead, embracing love and connection can lead to greater fulfillment and a sense of community, ultimately highlighting the importance of compassion in overcoming life's difficulties.
