What does love mean to you? Is it something you give and receive freely? Do you hold on to it tight and open it up for only a few special ones? Or, is it something you take away when your feelings are hurt?
Love is the most powerful emotion we can share and embrace. It can overflow our hearts with great joy and elation. As a basic human need, love is what we all have in common.
When we are infants, the first thing we experience is the love of our mother. This love is vital for the bond that is made. This love is the first sense of trust and security we feel. It sets the stage for our self-esteem and positive relationships. However, the opposite can occur when a baby isn’t given this love. They may find it hard to bond with others, feeling distrust and ultimately become insecure.
But, you never know what may happen when given a chance at love. As I have moved through life, I have had many ups and downs as a younger adult. I struggled a lot without the best influences around me. My life could have quickly gone in another direction, but deep inside, I wanted more. What made all the difference was having support from people who loved me and allowing myself to be vulnerable enough to accept it. I was fortunate to have a mother who cared for me through thick and thin. After she passed, mentors who continued to love me dropped into my life. I didn’t recognize who they were then or what an impact they would have, but they never turned their backs on me. They were patient and kind and continued to give me a space where I felt safe and secure even though my growth took time. In this space, I could flourish and I learned how to love myself.
Looking back, I am ever so grateful. And now, in my life, I recognize this deep sense of caring in the people who share it. These are the people I respect and admire. I consider them angels who walk upon the earth. I know firsthand love’s impact, regardless of age. So I ask you to consider, what does love mean to you? Is it something you give and receive freely? Do you hold on to it tight for a few special ones? Or, is it something you take away when your feelings get hurt? My hope is for you to always share and embrace the power of love.
