du·ty
noun, plural -ties.1.
something that one is expected or required to do by moralor legal obligation.
2.
the binding or obligatory force of something that is morally or legally right; moral or legal obligation.
3.
an action or task required by a person's position oroccupation; function: the duties of a clergyman.
4.
the respectful and obedient conduct due a parent, superior,elder, etc.
Recently I have felt as though I am doing a lot of things out of duty. That isn't a bad thing, especially if I should be doing them. However, as I thought more I realized I was hiding behind that word. When I do things out of duty there is no emotion connected with it. I don't get hurt when I do something out of duty. There are no expectations, I just do it because I should. As I thought more about it I realized most of what I do actually stems from love. I include others out of love, I would hate for someone to feel left out or alone. I have activities in hopes of building unity and love. However, as those things haven't gone as planned I think I run to the duty part. It just doesn't hurt as much. I realized it with Ryan's dad this week. I was having a silent conversation in my head with Ryan. I was discussing how I do the things for Wilford because I love Ryan. And that I wouldn't do the same thing for just anyone. Then I thought about that and realized I probably would. I would never want anyone to feel alone or lonely. It's interesting how life works. It's interesting how I learn things about myself. I love seeing Wilford get excited to go to his silver sneakers class. Or when he starts teasing the kids and puts ice down Casey's shirt. I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve him out of love. I am grateful I am slowly learning to love my fellowman. I am grateful for the blessings that come from having an aged parent live in our home and become a part of our family.
Comments
Thanks for writing this post.