Finding True Love
“Each person with his or her history of being accepted or rejected, with his or her past history of inner pain and difficulties in relationships, is different. But in each one there is a yearning for communion and belonging, but at the same time a fear of it. Love is what we most want, yet it is what we fear the most.”
So true. We all want to be loved unconditionally, accepted for who we are and understood for our intentions. But are we willing to offer that unconditional love and acceptance to others? Why is it so difficult? And why is it so hard to receive unconditional love from others?
Volumes have been written on this topic, but I think Vanier has nailed it--we are afraid. We fear vulnerability. And without vulnerability there is no communion.
We protect ourselves with walls of pride or self-righteousness; we avoid our emotions with distractions and busyness; we project our own "stuff" onto those around us out of fear of not being lovable. We fool ourselves into thinking "true love" is out there somewhere if only we could find the "right one."
What would happen if you dropped the walls? (Pssstt.... no one can love and accept who you really are if you never let them see the real you.) What would happen if you honestly expressed your feelings and needs without judging or demanding anything in return?
What if you could learn to love and accept yourself, not in a prideful way, not because you have accomplished this or that, but just because you are a human being like the rest of us and worthy of love?
Understand that you are not your body, or your body of work. Many would say that you are a child of God.
What if you are Love creatively expressing itself in the world?
As the angels always say, "Don't be afraid." Let go and let the love flow.
“Because you are precious in my sight, and honored, and I love you.”