Inspirational Memoirs

Picture from Pinterest. the world’s catalog of ideas.

Have you ever wondered why love is considered the greatest virtue? Why Jesus said that the greatest commandment is love for God followed by love for others? Why is it that love or lack of love is one of the most talked about topics as seen in the media? Why is there a day dedicated to love? Why is it that human beings have this desire to be loved and accepted? What is the true definition of love? Why does love hold so much significance in this world? What is it with this four letter word that captures the attention of many?

Love is an expression of affection for self or others in words or deeds. It is a word that expresses our deepest thoughts and feelings for another. Human beings usually have this innate need to be loved, recognized and accepted. When we say or claim we love someone what does it really mean? What does it mean when someone does something out of love? Well, it means a whole lot. Even doing small things that would otherwise seem insignificant to another out of love would bear more significance simply because the action was motivated by love. Knowing that you are loved makes life easier. Knowing that you are appreciated gives one comfort especially through the tests and trials, the ups and downs usually encountered in life.

When we look at this four letter word that bears significance in the hearts of many, we can contemplate on some of the attributes that comprise love.

Love is the willingness to give up your own desires or comfort for another. It is the ability to sacrifice your own desires for the benefit of another. Going the extra mile to do the best for another for their benefit.

Love is forgiveness. We can appreciate that we are imperfect beings in an imperfect world who  have the tendency of seeking perfection. No one is perfect. When we expect perfection we get frustrated when slip ups occur. The ability to recognize imperfection gives us the strength to forgive those we hold dear.

God is perfect and His love is perfect. He loves us unconditionally in spite of our faults and imperfections. Sin separates us from God. In order to bridge the gap He sent His only son to die for us. Through acceptance of this free gift of salvation we can live in His presence. God readily extends grace to us in spite of the countless times we make mistakes. He is ready to forgive us if we truly repent. He wraps us with His kindness, goodness and favor even when we do not recognize it. He is patient with us and is willing to work in us in order to be the best that we can be. He will extend His love to us but He will never force anyone to accept His love. He gives us free will to choose.  He will never leave us or forsake us. He is always there for us. He is love in its purest form.

When you know you are loved by someone, whether it is a parent, a sibling, a friend or a spouse, you are not afraid to be open. You can afford to be vulnerable and open up about issues disturbing you without fear of judgement or rejection. This is because where true love is, fear cannot exist. Because God is love, and His love is unconditional, we should not fear going to Him with our requests.

Be awesome, stay awesome,

Regards,

Kiria.