Love and Loving?
In a kaleidoscope of human emotions, love stands out as the most profound and multifaceted. It is not confined to the realms of romantic relationships but spans across friendships, familial bonds, and companionships. Unraveling the true essence of love, we realize it’s not just about appreciation and acceptance; it’s an empowering journey of mutual growth and unending support. In this exploration, we seek to understand the depths of love and its transformative power in our lives. In my own journey of 43 years, Love has a been mostly a confused state of mind and emotions, a wrong understanding of taboo, a major fear of expression. But over the last 3 years (yes im 46 today), i have found its true meaning in my life, and felt its presence in every person i meet, and those that remain back in my life and me in theirs.
In the past, i would fear the concept of love, i felt it was demanded, a moral commitment and a taboo to express. Today the fact that im even writing this article, gives me the strength to truly understand, its real meaning, feeling and form of expression. Though in this stage of time, i am heavily challenged against my new found meaning to love and life. I feel fighting for what you have found in a form of understanding, is something worth fighting for.
The Foundation of Empowerment and Growth:
For me today, Love transcends moral commitments and societal expectations, serving as a cornerstone for empowerment and personal development. It’s about uplifting each other, addressing weaknesses, and fostering an environment conducive to growth and evolution. Its usually said, if you love someone, set them free. But for me i would evolve it as , if you love someone, help them fly.
Unconditional Presence and Support:
True love is characterized by an unwavering presence and support, not just in times of distress but in everyday moments. It’s about walking together, sharing stories, and ensuring a steadfast presence that fortifies the relationship.
*Quote*: “The art of love is largely the art of persistence.” – Albert Ellis
Acceptance and Self-Evolution:
Accepting our loved ones for who they truly are is fundamental. If we encounter challenges, the quest for self-betterment should be a voluntary journey, driven by an intrinsic desire rather than external pressures. Sometimes, specific qualities of an individual maybe difficult for others. But some, will still try to make an attempt to accept you as you are. Hence to balance this love and respect, one must learn to self love and work on their gaps with help, so as to strengthen each others bonds even more.
*Tip*: Foster open communication and mutual respect, encouraging continuous self-improvement and evolution for the betterment of the relationship.
The Universality of Love:
Love knows no boundaries; it’s universal, encompassing friendships, sibling bonds, and other relationships. Expressing love is crucial, and if challenges arise, it’s essential to seek avenues to learn, experience, and encourage expressions of love, adapting to the comfort level between individuals. Love cannot be owned or possessed as a materialistic item. Its not tangible. It must be earned and continued to be earned on a daily basis. A serious effort needs to be taken to see it in its truest and purest form.
Enriching Love:
Enriching love, both spiritually and emotionally, is integral. Meditation and self-reflection can deepen the connection, while loving oneself forms the basis for extending love to others. If one struggles to love oneself, extending genuine love to another becomes challenging.
A Balance of Give and Take:
Reciprocity is at the heart of any loving relationship. A harmonious balance, where both individuals feel valued and heard, contributes to a relationship’s longevity and wellbeing.
*Example*: The essence of balanced reciprocity is visible in friendships, where both parties invest time, share responsibilities, and mutually contribute to the relationship’s growth.
Beyond Materialism and Physicality:
Love is more than material gains and physical intimacy. It’s a sanctuary of compassion, joy, understanding, and emotional connection, prioritizing the depth of the relationship over transient worldly pleasures.
*Quote*: “Love is not about possession. Love is about appreciation.” – Osho
Emergencies and Prioritization:
Emergencies necessitate a reevaluation of priorities. Love demands availability and adjustment to ensure the well-being and comfort of our loved ones in times of need.
*Tip*: Be empathetic and understanding, and prioritize the emotional needs of your loved ones, standing by them through all seasons of life.
Love is not just a feeling; it’s an empowering journey of mutual growth, acceptance, and support. Understanding and embracing the true essence of love allows us to build enriching and transformative relationships across all facets of our lives. By expressing love regularly, enriching it, and ensuring a balance of give and take, we become architects of bonds that are robust, compassionate, and enduring.
Embrace the empowering aspect of love as a guiding light, navigating the complexities of our relationships. By doing so, we not only strengthen our bonds but also create a ripple effect of positivity, resilience, and mutual growth, leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of human connections. This is where i am growing today…. what about you?