Okay, as I was doing my mom's hair this morning (yes, we have our bonding when I become her hair stylist!), we discussed this concept of "open heart" vs. "guarded heart." We asked the deep question: is it that I fear my heart would be less valuable once I give it out?
I remember one of the greatest things I've learned from my Brazilian students is the concept of a warm heart. They loved America and Americans, but thought that, unfortunately, many Americans were cold hearted. I later discovered that this implied words like: apathetic, closed-off, reserved, stiff, unaffectionate, selfish, quick to give up, impatient. A warm heart implied just the opposite. Someone who felt and showed care deeply, and was willing to sacrifice for other people. I LOVED that concept!! What a great concept for a whole culture to have!!
I want a warm heart!
Well, today, among grading my students' end-of-the-semester portfolios, I actually have 3 "social events": a women's brunch this morning, a coffee at the mall with a friend this afternoon, and dinner with another friend. Sooooo . . . . I'm gonna do a little personal research on what others think about "being open" . . . bring up the topic.
I may do a little Bible research too later tonight on our words, what we share, guarding our hearts. I remember that Mary, Jesus' mother, treasured all the things that happened to her in her heart, and didn't talk about them. What is that about? Is there something to say for discretion? Wisdom in fewer words? Are these linked concepts?
Hmmm . . . off to my brunch . . .
No comments:
Post a Comment