Tonight, I am watching the movie, The Last Samurai. And I am surprisingly astonished how the character, Taka would care to the wounds of Captain Nathan Algren. Despite Captain Algren taking the life of Hirotaro (Taka’s husband), she honorably cares for him. Eventually, Captain Algren sincerely apologizes to Taka for Hirotaro’s death which she unexpectedly accepts because of the honor of battle. Which, the theme “honor” is one of several favorite themes of mine discovered in this movie. (And, I really connect to the character Captain Algren in so many ways! In fact, God speaks to me through this movie of so many different deep heart-felt hopes).
Now, moving along to another topic, dating. Awhile back, I was “processing” with a close friend of mine concerning my thoughts, feelings, etc. about honorable dating. And, as I was sharing my confusion and frustration about dating, and not yet, discovering the “Rose” for me. And during processing, my friend shared something that revealed what was hidden. He said, “You know what your problem is.” And I sarcastically interjected, “Yeah, I haven’t found a lady that can forgive enough.” And without missing a breathe, he saw right through my feeble attempt to avoid my pain in sarcasm and said, “Your problem is once bitten, twice shy.” And I quietly smiled and whispered, “Yes.
The Last Samurai: I Accept Your Apology.
So, here is my encouragement, if you too, have experienced relational failure, perhaps, you too might be shy. Do you find yourself pulling away from a relationship (or potential relationship)? Are you timid or even frightened in the prospect of hoping again for that gift of love that God has graciously in store for each of you? Perhaps, you might be overwhelmingly experiencing once bitten, twice shy syndrome. Well, just a question, is it okay to give yourself permission to deeply love again? I think so. And, I am willing to be open to the possibility of gratefully receiving God’s gracious gift, “the Rose” again. After all, Taka was once bitten with the lost of a relationship (i.e., her husband), and yet, she courageously and resolutely loved again. Will you?
