What’s It Like When You’re Truly Known?

Hospitality

Early morning, sitting up in bed,

having done my readings,

before me,

the play

on a lavender wall

of the sun's glories

picked up and juggled

by leaf hands

of large basswoods

outside the window.

It's a large white house

on a deep dark lake

where we come

for a weekend

each summer--guests

of friends since high school,

grandparents of their brood

who have the run of the place.

For now, some moments of peace.

Soon, bedlam and love

woven like a fine mat.

Intricate. Alluring. Durable--

reminding me of

Tolstoy's opening words

to Anna Karenina:

"All happy families are alike."

To Ponder

1. I have found over a lifetime no feeling stronger and more

gratifying than being welcomed—and knowing it.

2. That feeling exists because of reciprocity; somehow the

person being received well is also a giver.

3. It need not be conscious, and most times probably isn’t,

but looking back, the receiver will see that he’s

participated.

4. What is it then that emerges when you’re truly known,

that you have to give to others—or just a single other?

How have you discovered it?

5. Think about it; many people never have.

6. Know when to offer an invitation, and to whom, and

when to accept one, from whom.

7. Know when to experiment when you can’t know—yet! Be

ready for a surprise of delights!

© 2013 Allan Cox, Allan Cox & Associates Inc. All Rights Reserved.
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