Valentines Day is tomorrow and the expression of love is in the air. It must be on my mind because I’ve heard three different versions of love’s definition or way to say it that I really like… and that also make me think of our campers and staff.
Ti Voglio Bene
The Italian version is fabulous. This is a common Italian phrase meaning “I love you” or “I care about you,” but it is used for friends, family, and close, non-romantic relationships. It literally translates to “I want good for you” or “I wish you well”.
This is totally a ‘camp thing.’ And, it also fits beautifully into the next one:
To Will the Good for the Other
As you may or may not know, I take wisdom from wherever I can get it. I’ve studied every major world religion (and a few minor ones) and listen to people across the religious and political spectrum. In many of his homilies, Bishop Robert Barron says that ‘love’ is simply to will the good of the other.
I love this. Again – totally a ‘camp thing.’
Zoe
In his book, Inner Excellence, Jim Murphy speaks of the Greek word, zoe. This is the state of being totally possessed of vitality, the full expression of love, wisdom and courage. As he talks about often (and I whole heartedly agree), love is fearless.
This idea also comes from Lao Tzu, the founder of Taoism:
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.”
How About You?
How will you tell someone that you love them tomorrow, the next day and the next? There are certainly more ways to say ‘I love you’ or ‘I want the good for you’ or ‘I will work for your life to be filled with love, wisdom and courage.’
You could do the dishes for your parents who’ve been working or organizing or planning all day. You could read a story to your younger sibling or your grandparent. You could call someone with whom you’ve not spoken with in a while to just check in and say ‘hello.’
(The worst/best kept secret in the world: we ALL want to feel connected but are afraid to go first. Well… Weequahic campers and staff practice courage! You can go first.)
Happy Valentine’s Day, Camp Weequahic. We love y’all!
