Oh my, how easily words can be mis-spoken, misunderstood, misinterpreted. Words spoken out of love ... simply misunderstood.

It seems like so many relationships are complicated, affected by misunderstood words. Hurt feelings. Bruised hearts. Bitterness. Anger.

It seems I have seen so many struggles in relationships around me as of late. Even a few of my own come to mind. A moment last week with a dear friend ... words I thought I spoke out of love (perhaps I mis-spoke), were completely misunderstood. And now, a strained relationship.

How easy it is to get caught up in the whirlwind of emotions. Of that, I am guilty. As much as I try not to be, I am.

The one solid, never changing, never misunderstood relationship I have, we all have, is with God. I know He loves me for me, for who I am right now. He accepts. He forgives.

To love, to accept, to give and to forgive, to encourage, to respect ... the ingredients every relationship needs to grow, to be strong, resilient, safe.

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God
for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." Eph. 4:32