Unconditional Love, Being Profound and Selfless
The reason I wrote this is because of a challenge brought forth to me in this area. It is funny how information comes to you when least expected and perplexed as to how I was going to communicate this to someone I truly love with all my heart, my daughter.
We are all trained in this society to be closed, protected, unavailable, wary or cautious of who we allow into our hearts. To me, my greatest challenge has been to forgive those whom violated me when young and to learn what or how to instill unconditional love within myself.
It can be said that or rather what I have learned is that unconditional love is a profound and selfless form of love that is not contingent on circumstances, actions, or expectations.
It is a love that persists and remains steadfast, regardless of the flaws, mistakes, or challenges faced by the recipient.
Unconditional love is often associated with compassion, acceptance, and a deep sense of connection. It’s the kind of love that a parent has for their child, where love is given freely, without any conditions or expectations of receiving something in return.
To be an example of unconditional love for others, one must first cultivate this love within themselves.
By engaging in self-reflection we understand that unconditional love starts from within, with the ability to love and accept oneself without judgment. As Lao Tzu said, “Because one believes in oneself, one doesn’t try to convince others.” It just happens through being true to who you are.
Embrace empathy and compassion towards oneself and others. This isn’t always easy to do when the other person can’t see what unconditional love is or should be. One has to be the example for the other to see. Hopefully one day the light will shine from within them.
We need to recognize that everyone is flawed, we are perfectly imperfect, and it’s through under-standing and forgiveness that we can truly love unconditionally.
Help the other person identify conditions they may unconsciously place on their love or loved ones. Encourage them to recognize moments when their love wavers due to external factors or expectations. This one in particular can be a challenge when those outside factors are other family members looking out for themselves only and using others for their gain. Still, living by example is the most powerful weapon and staying true to who you are.
Love is patient, love is kind… it always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” (1 Corinthians 13:4–7)
Teach the importance of active listening and providing a safe space for loved ones to express themselves without fear of judgment.
Thich Nhat Hanh said: “To love without knowing how to love wounds the person we love.”
When we demonstrate our leading by example, by showing unwavering love and support for the other person, even when they make mistakes or face challenges. We show them that love can be constant, regardless of circumstances.
In teaching the concept of unconditional love, it’s important to emphasize that it’s a lifelong practice, and no one is perfect.
Encourage that person to be patient with themselves as they strive to cultivate this profound form of love, both for themselves and for others. Time is of the essence.
Unconditional love can transform relationships and bring greater harmony and fulfillment into one’s life and the lives of those they touch. This I have seen and experienced within my own family and the lives of those mine touches.
It isn’t easy, this takes a long time to procure. Kinda like a good cup of coffee perked upon the top of the stove. The timing is what it is all about.
Take care everyone, be well, blessed and grateful for everything in your day.
Blessings,
M
