How to Be a Better Human Being: Love
“And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.”
Valentine's Day.
A day of love, affection, rejection, and so much more.
Every year, we take this time to celebrate, capitalize on and be bitter about love. But I think we forget that "love" is so much more than small gestures, chocolate boxes, paper valentines and expensive dinners. Love is not restricted to rose bouquets, scripted letters and little blue boxes.
“Love knows no bounds.”
Truly. But we do. And yet ...
“I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality. ... I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word.”
– Martin Luther King, Jr.
Today, and in this time, MLK's words ring especially true. In the midst of division, animosity and hatred, we forget that love conquers all. And on a day all about love, I challenge you to think outside of the box. Rethink what love is and who it’s for. Love isn’t just for your girlfriend, galentines or significant other; it’s for everyone and everything you interact with.
Love is kindness.
And compassion. And understanding. First of yourself, so that you can then extend it to others.
Love is acceptance.
Of difference. Of truth. Of failure and flaws. Love is caring for your fellow human being and giving people the space and support to be human. This includes you.
Love is making an effort.
Or at least being open to it and being patient enough to work toward and find common ground. Are you pushing people out or extending a hand? Drowning out the “noise” or lending a listening ear?
Today, and every day, be a better human.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7 is often quoted in weddings and used in the context of romantic relationships. But I once read in a devotional, that it can be applied to our day-to-life, particularly in how we lead. If you were to take 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and swap out “Love” for your name, would it ring true? Would it sound right? Would it be accurate?