Love was mentioned sixty-two times in John Lennon and Paul McCartney's lyrics to All You Need Is Love. Their message could not be misunderstood...it's all we need! Kindergarteners learn lessons of love. Spiritual seekers aspire to practice pure love. Parents are overwhelmed by the strength of their love. Newlyweds are giddy with the intensity of young love. Social anthropologists affirm the importance of love. Love is everywhere. It's even in the eyes of our furry friends who love so unconditionally. So why is it sometimes so hard to love?
Love Thy Neighbor As Thyself
Perhaps one reason lies in the imperfection of not loving oneself. Within this competitive and individualistic society we have cultivated, we tend to look outward for validation of our own self worth. Not surprisingly, we will likely fall short when we compare ourselves to the rich, the famous, the powerful, the slim, and the ripped...heck, even to our adorable furry pets! We will never be enough if we judge ourselves against a standard not of our own making.
Know That You Don't Know
This was one of my mother's favorite sayings. She intended it to mean we should never judge another because we don't share the experiences of walking in their shoes. By another standard, it also cautions me to be humble. Once I think I understand something is when I go full throttle into questioning the stakes I've placed in the ground. If I believe too strongly in my positions, it simply doesn't allow space for growth.
I've learned the hard way much of my life. So, here are a few things that will hopefully spare you the same growing pains. But don't trust me. Check them out for yourself because...I know that I don't know for certain!
Lessons From My Road
Rock your own style. Be true to yourself. How boring it would be if we all looked alike and believed the same thoughts. Shine your authentic self without fanfare nor apology. You have nothing to prove.
Get out of your pod. Listen to people who hold views different than yours. Reach for understanding rather than grandstanding.
Say it out loud and say it often, "I love you." Better yet - sing it!
Love the heck out of the body, mind, and spirit you are blessed with. And throw away your mirrors! The only reflections you need are your own.
Set goals related to your passions and desires AND always be kind to yourself for where you are in the moment. Love what you do as much as you love who and how you are.
Don't be seduced by differences. Instead, look for common ground. There's lots of it.
Minimize time on social media. Use it for social-benefit! Get off the comparison train.
Be like the Flash Love folks I met in Vancouver, WA. Step out of yourself and shower some love on others. I'll bet you'll love yourself more for it.
In the end, the only thing we leave in our wake that won't decay and turn to dust is the love we shine forth every moment of every day. As the song goes...
Love is all we need
Love is all we need
Love is all we need
So do what John and Paul would do and flash some love to your neighbors!