By Steve

I just want to be nice to people. No strings attached. And while I still have hope, can it really be possible? Is it possible to really love each other and not expect something from each other? I believe it is. I know it is. It just seems so rare.

I was thinking about this as I walked by the same homeless man I see each morning on the way to the office. If I don't acknowledge his existence I feel like such a jerk, but if we make eye contact or if I say hello and smile, he quickly holds out his hand hoping for some change.

A couple of weeks ago I asked a pastor of the church I grew up in if I could come share some of the many great things going on in my life and endeavors in San Diego with the church. Most of his response centered around the idea that the church was not in a place where they could financially support us. I never even mentioned money.

It was very hard to really be nice to girls in college. A nice gesture to someone of the opposite sex must mean you want to go out on a date. You can't "just" be nice, it must mean more.

In high school, if I was ever nice to teachers most my friends thought I was just brown nosing for a better grade. Okay, bad example.

It's hard enough to really love each other, warts and all. But the challenge is compounded by the thinking that our love for each other comes with expectations, agendas or strings.

But I have hope. I ordered some artificial grass for my patio a few days ago. The owner of the company gave it to me for free with no expectations. Someone brought Gelato to our home church last night to share with everyone, just because she wanted to. I helped a college student for over an hour today on a project just because she asked.

I love people. Not because I want something in return. Not because I want to convert you. Not because I want you to be in our church. I just love people and I hope my actions are evidence that I really do care for you just because I want to and don't want anything back...accept that maybe you will love me too.

Here's to hoping.