John 3:16 posits the ultimate gift of love is offering ourselves and our offspring to the world to make it a better place. On the eve of Christiandom’s big event, I’ve been pondering this question: What is love’s real definition?
Alain de Botton’s “School of Life” reminds us that true love is hard work.
The trick is to master the love as a skill, not just a feeling. Love requires embracing trust, vulnerability, generosity, humor, and resilience. To look for the good. To remove yourself from the unacceptable.
Love flows between people with common interests. To be attractive, is to take the time to discover what gives life meaning; To align inner priorities and talents with the world’s demands; to cultivate hope and gratitude, navigating the inevitable challenges with an unwavering spirit.
While all religious doctrine claims to be based on love, opportunists have connected some of the worst acts in history with icons who would be heartbroken by things done in their name.
Authentic love celebrates differences, recognizing everyone is beautifully imperfect, accepting us as we are.
Acknowledging our own imperfections, learning from them, and sharing wisdom with grace. All these things paint prismatic projections of authenticity onto the tapestry we continually create.
Whatever traditions you celebrate at this time of the year, may Alain de Botton’s definition of love be at the center.
Love is a skill. Practice it daily.
