What is love? I’ll wait for fans of Haddaway’s hit song to finish their head-bobbing karaoke session. In all seriousness, let’s reflect on that question together: what is love? As Odd Fellows, Love is one of our cherished watchwords and so it’s only fair that we are clear on what love actually is.
Consider this an open book test. If it’s helpful, feel free to consult any trusted writings for guidance.
What answers did you find? Is love patient, and kind? Was love described as a willingness to sacrifice selflessly, for the wellbeing of all? Perhaps love was painted as humble, and never envious. Or maybe love was explained as compassion, forgiveness and mercy, given freely.
For those who prefer to draw more from their own experience, here’s a shortcut to a better understanding of what love is. Think about whomever you care for most in this world and consider what you would, or would not want for them.
I can confidently guess that you want those you care for most to have food, medicine, shelter, safety, and a life free from fear. I can say with certainty that you want them to be happy, to have opportunity, and to have the tools to access all of the building blocks of happiness. I know that you want those you care for most to be trusted, believed, and respected in all that they do.
With an equal measure of confidence, I know that you would not want those you care most about to be harmed, stolen from, or slandered.
With all of those thoughts on love have you found a meaning that you connect with? If so, please take that meaning and make it a compass. Apply it to your thoughts and actions toward every neighbor in your neighborhood, in your city, your state, your nation, and on your planet.
If everyone committed to acting out of love, we would live in a very different world. And a better world would be built, for the generations to come.
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