By: Gabriela Yareliz
There is an elderly Asian couple that rides the morning train with me. The man has a walker with wheels that turns into a seat. He moves slowly. His wife always holds him firmly but gently, and sometimes, kisses his face under his baseball cap. Her arm is always around him. I absolutely adore commuting with them.
If you know Bridget, founder of The Bar, she is currently battling cancer. We have all witnessed her husband of two years dress her, dance with her, glam her up for chemo, get her treats, lift her spirits— unconditional loving care. Her account isn’t about beauty or fashion— it is an undeniable illustration of love.
I saw this with my mother-in-law and father-in-law. I have seen my husband care of his parents with so much grace and deep love.
It’s my mom’s presence who never left, no matter how hard it got or how much she could have gained without us.
Every time I see these people in action, aside from praying for them, I am reminded of something powerful— it’s the true image and manifestation of love.
It’s this simple. It’s something deep and steadfast. It’s the arm that upholds you when it’s all falling apart— sometimes, when you are falling apart. It’s the steady and dependable person who keeps showing up.
Sometimes, we make love something else. We think it’s elaborate. Something that must be spicy. Something that requires some special recipe that some people are not capable of because they are so self-absorbed.
But it’s simple. It’s supernatural. It’s the one who serves and gives all.
When we see it, it is undeniable. Because in it, we see the face of God.
GABRIELA YARELIZ 