The power of the heart

I believe in the power of the heart.

I believe that in giving and receiving,
in little kindnesses and forgiveness,
in the embrace and challenges,
found among whānau and communities of friends,
our hearts are strengthened and softened.
A soft heart is a strong heart.

I believe that courage comes from the heart.

When a person speaks up for goodness’ sake,
to defend another or simply to question authority,
when obedience is the common preference
and praise is conferred upon the compliant,
then courage needs to stand alongside.
A brave heart cannot remain silence.

I believe that love is nurtured in the heart.

I believe that justice is inseparable from love.
I believe that generosity is inseparable from love.
I believe that hospitality is inseparable from love.
I believe that the willingness to put on the shoes of another,
and experience something of their life, reality, and pain,
is inseparable from love.

And I believe God is inseparable from such love.