By 1974, John was in the middle of what he later called his "lost weekend," an 18-month separation from Yoko that was anything but a simple break. He was trying to find his footing without the relationship that had become his anchor.
Loving someone without being possessive or controlling is a struggle for many people. That was certainly an issue for John. There was a deeper, more healthy form of love that John needed to learn: the willingness to release someone you care for and genuinely hope they find what they need.
Even in the middle of heartbreak, generosity is possible. This Brazilian-influenced rhythm of this song creates a warmth that balances the unmistakable mood of melancholy. John was saying goodbye and wishing well at the same time, and that combination was what made the song, and eventually the reconciliation, possible.
Sending someone off with goodwill rather than grievance is its own form of healing. The bitterness that can follow the end of a close relationship does not punish the other person nearly as much as it punishes you.
Sometimes love is most fully expressed in the moment of letting go. In the case of John and Yoko, that release was the foundation of their ability to reunite in a way that was stronger and healthier than they were before.
Today, I will extend genuine goodwill toward someone I have been holding any resentment toward, choosing to want their flourishing even where our paths have diverged.
Where in your life might releasing resentment and offering genuine goodwill be the most loving and liberating thing you could do? What would it mean to truly bless someone on their way?
