I think the greatest pain to the heart is when the most is invested for the least return in the context of having the greatest hope that there would be return. At least from my experience. I've never been a parent, but I certainly know what it is to invest in people. I've invested in lots of people. Those under my care in work and ministry. In family and friends. I've invested in acquaintances and strangers. I've invested time, prayer, thought, affection, gifts, notes, conversations, vulnerability, care-- sometimes I literally feel like I've opened my heart up and given it.
That is why it is painful when I hope that a person will change, will grow, will reciprocate love . . . and they don't. But my dilemma lies in trying to evaluate whether this pain is noble or not.
Am I in pain because I love this person so much and want to see what's best for them in their life, and I see their poor decisions leading them to their own destruction?
Or am I in pain because I was disappointed in the hope of a personal return for my love? Did I feel used and the one left with the short stick? Did I love with the condition of being loved back?
Heart, be noble, and let your love be true. No conditions, no returns. This is a tough teaching, certainly it is. Because pain of the heart is hard to bear.
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