The less love in any person’s nature, the greater his or her need for love

We sometimes encounter people who hurt us, try to use us, or even abuse us. We have a choice in how we respond. Accepting the simple truth that “Those who feel loved, act lovingly” offers a perspective that might temper our response.

All true love comes from the divine source, flows to each person, through that individual and then outward to others. The flow from the source is constant and un-ending but self-righteousness, selfishness, self-centeredness, and fear can block feeling the flow of love for a moment, a day, or a lifetime. These spiritual maladies render any person incapable of receiving love, experiencing love, or letting the love flow out to another human being. Those who are hurting do hurtful things. Consider the lack of love—and the need for love—in the acts of this challenging, unloving person and offer a reply based on this knowledge without sacrificing dignity, poise and self respect.

Prayer: Dear God, let all my acts this day be acts of love and not depend on other people’s acts toward me. If someone is unkind, belligerent or hateful, guide me so that I may share the love I feel from you and from my family and friends. Grant me the serenity, poise and any needed gifts or guidance to be a demonstration of love to all I meet.

 Take three relaxing breaths; ask your inner spirit to guide your meditation; reflect on the content, pausing for a few minutes in silence.