“You will find as you look back upon your life that the moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have done things in the spirit of love.” This quote is from Henry Drummond. Since this is February, the month of Valentines Day, it is a time to reflect on the spirit of loving.
There are many acts of love that we either give or receive each day, not just on Valentines Day or in the month of February. They are given with no expectation of something in return. Expressions of support, compassion, friendship or appreciation; given spontaneously and genuinely are gifts that can bring tears to our eyes, and comfort to our hearts. Both the giver and the receiver are forever changed by sharing a loving moment.
The power of love is the most precious gift in the universe and yet too many times, we are reluctant to reach out to someone else in a loving way. We are afraid our offering will not be accepted. We hesitate and let fear stop us. To the recipient, it may seem unimaginable that someone could reach out in a loving manner. It feels strange when honest and real love is offered as never experienced before. We are also afraid of this thing that we’ve wanted so desperately. Can this be real? What if I get hurt again? Again fear reigns. Everyone loses!
In reality, you will reach out to others and they will not be able to accept the gift you offer. Please know that the love in your heart is valuable and worthy. It just means the other person is too afraid to allow love to come to them. That is sad, but because you made the effort, your heart can swell and grow.
Sometimes people make it hard for us to love them. Unhappiness, anger, or other negative feelings come oozing out of them and spill out on everyone around. Underneath all the drama is a person who desperately needs our love. Is this easy? No! That, however, is the time to step back and look beyond the behavior. Find something to love.
To give in the spirit of love is such a natural response. It is a smile, a spoken word, a phone call, a text message, listening, a hug, a card, taking care of a need, or providing a sanctuary in a time of crisis. All of these actions say, “I love you.” They let someone else know they are a valuable and worthwhile person and you care about their welfare. You are saying to them, please take care of yourself and allow me to support you – through thick and thin. So, in this month look for ways to give in the spirit of love. Giving in the spirit of love enriches your life and the lives of others! Take a risk, take the leap, jump at a chance – it’s time!