The first encounter feels like a helium balloon of love,

floating us gently to new heights of peace and sweetness we’d never fathomed.

Sooner or later,

atmospheric pressure pops this bubble of perfection,

and gravity spirals us back down to the reality of earth,

where purgation starts like a strenuous climb.

A gift freely given must now be fought for

with everything we’ve got.

Really, we’re the lucky ones, who’ve even had a sense of it –

Mystical memory is etched deep in our souls,

illuminating our path and spurring us on.

The journey is arduous, but the destination calls us forth.

I’m here to tell you:

This is how you become capable of greater love.

I’m here to encourage you:

Angels accompany you through every trial.

I’m here to remind you:

The Glory of God is worthy of your effort.