Sotto Voce: Singing or speaking in very soft tones…
Now, in this crowd you may have come with someone you know or there may be strangers on either side. It matters not. In the way that I spoke of above, a gentle, innocent, compassionate moment, turn to the person to your right, look them straight in the eyes, rest your hand softly on their shoulder, and, looking in their eyes, say, very simply, “I love you.” No embarrassment or hemming or hawing around, as simple as that. I love you. Don’t hug them, don’t try to hold their hand or touch any other part of their body. That can feel invasive and too personal. A hand touching the shoulder so very softly that it almost can’t be felt, a genuine, gentle look in the eyes, and with the softest voice possible say, “I love you.” Let it sink in for just a few seconds, nod with a soft smile, and then turn to the person to the left of you and do the same thing. You need not say anything else to this person, in fact it’s better that you don’t, so that the simple act of a selfless statement of love for our fellow man/womankind is felt with no strings attached, wanting nothing in return, simply because they are standing in the same place and space as you are, and they wish you well. If you are here with me, at the very least, you wish those around you well. You needn’t have a personal relationship with them, you will likely never see them again unless they are family or a friend, but even if you do know them, if you do this very sincerely, from the heart, and do not dwell on it but simply take your seat again, moving slowing and silently and feeling the awe and the reverence around you, you will begin to understand universal love. Take this in deeply, let it seep out of you into the world in any way you can. We are thousands, we may become millions, we can change the world with one simple moment, a light touch, gentle eyes, and the words “I love you.”
Beautiful Maitri. I’ve missed you and again I am so very sorry for your loss. You’re such an amazing person, so very wise but very gentle. I can hear your soft and gentle voice through the very words and manner in which you write. Very powerful yet, soft. I wish I could be more like you my friend. Take care Maitri.
Sorry for your loss. I am glad to see you back. I have missed you.
Hope your pain will ease as the days pass and that you will come back to blogging again.
Love you and praying for you.