Love or something else?

What are we striving for in life? Money? Freedom? Sure;) No question, creature comforts, luxury, adventure, beautiful things, free time, travel etc. can all be very alluring, fulfilling and meaningful. At the end of the day though, we need more, right? How we feel is the core driver in our lives and the people around us have a significant impact on our world and how we feel about ourselves. Are we caring for ourselves well? Are our loved ones caring for us in a fulfilling way? Are we caring for them in the way that they need? Are we truly fulfilled? Most healing professionals will say that we are responsible for the state of our lives and relationships - that we have to take care of our own needs first and then be willing and able to ask for what we require in our relationships. (... and of course we have to begin with a mutually loving relationship). This is so much easier said than done... but if we decide to choose fulfilling love, life could be pretty sweet.... if we believe in such sentiments as these:

* A person who loves you truly will never let you go whatever the situation is.

* Immature love says: 'I love you because I need you.' Mature love says 'I need you because I love you' Erich Fromm

* Love is friendship that has caught fire. It is quiet and understanding, mutual confidence, sharing and forgiving. It is loyalty through good and bad times. It settles for less than perfection and makes allowances for human weaknesses.

* Love is when the other person's happiness is more important than your own.
H. Jackson Brown, Jr.

* The first duty of love is to listen.
Paul Tillich

* Love is a force more formidable than any other. It is invisible - it cannot be seen or measured, yet it is powerful enough to transform you in a moment, and offer you more joy than any material possession could.
Barbara de Angelis

Is it just me, or does it feel good to wade in such sentiments;) ? ... As much as we are able, let us follow our hearts this year... toward all the warmth and goodness we can grab ahold of.... and believe in love, no matter what. (For tips on loving in a promising and meaningful way, check out The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman). Hugs.

Blessings,

Chatgirl