Love has its own tempo. It is long, and slow, and it evens out over time. A traditional gift tied in a bow can be an expression of affection, but being present in receiving that gift, too, is love.

As the world turns on, I wonder how we will maintain our relationships, and at what speed our connections will take place. I think it's worth remembering that maintenance is about nourishing what already exists, and that sustenance in love is about passing the imbalance back and forth, with patience.