Love is not just a warm fuzzy feeling. It is a deep and strong affection we feel for another person, expressed through words and actions. Without it, our lives would be hollow and shallow. To love and be loved by others is what we want above all else. It is the lifeline of humanity.
We seek love from friends, family members and a romantic partner, but sometimes we tend to place too many conditions on these relationships, causing us to miss out on the power of love. For example, we may feel that we are only able to love those who love us in return or only until they are no longer meeting our expectations. But true love is unconditional. When we truly care for another individual, we must continue to do so in the good times and the bad. All relationships face obstacles and limitations, but if we overcome them, we experience the amazing gift of love.
Recently, many of us tuned in to watch President George W. Bush give a eulogy at the funeral for his father, President George H.W. Bush. During this speech, he expressed what could only be defined as his true love and admiration for his father. Towards the end of the speech he said, “He taught us what it means to be a wonderful father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He was firm in his principles and supportive as we began to seek our own ways. He encouraged and comforted but never steered. We tested his patience. I know I did. But he always responded with the great gift of unconditional love.”
In listening to this speech, many of us were deeply moved as a son spoke highly of his father and the love his father had for family, life and others. Bush’s speech told us what laid heavily on his heart, his unconditional love for his father.
God, please teach us to express our love to those we care for and to love unconditionally.
