[Marina Kits]

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I believe there is truth in that but I would condition it slightly. As true as it is that our ability to love unconditionally must be learned from someone, I also believe we can only give as much love to others as we are able to first give to ourselves.
But, keep in mind that I may have a different definition of love than many people do. To me, love is a verb more so than a feeling. It is an action and in its purest form it is selfless. We love someone by actively trying to support them and by helping them and by wanting for them what is best and brightest for them. Love, for me, is not just a feeling of love. If it were, then there would be no difference between the love I have for my car or my scotch, and the love I have for my wife and children. The toughest part is when the love you feel and show for someone runs directly contrary to your own personal best interests. That is the real test. Now that the sexual demon is no longer part of the entire equation for me, it has liberated me to practice what I believe far more bravely. At my best, I think I come close. I find it humorously ironic that a weed from Thailand has helped me so much in this. And, no dear, I am not a follower of Jesus, but I do believe his words hold a lot of wisdom for those who seek it, when freed from the manipulations of centuries of manipulative humans. Not that it hurts, mind you, but I just don't believe one needs to find God, to see that wisdom. In truth, Kari, you and I very well may have a lot more in common than you might have believed.
Hugs

I agree with all of what you said Sammie. Love is hard to summarize. I referred to it as a feeling but you are right in calling it a verb also. When I am BEING loved by someone, it's a feeling. When I am loving someone else it's a verb and indeed, you cannot do a good job loving unless you're also being selfless.

I also agree with you about the manipulative influence man has had on what Jesus said and taught. I have no place for religion or denominations whatsoever and it pains me hear the endless stories of wonderful people who have been abused, hurt and misled by denominations and those claiming to be followers of Christ. Personally, I just try my best to know him and love the unloved as he did. And no, you don't have to be a follower of Jesus to be a good person or to love well ...but I do. So, I guess when you started this thread by bringing up LOVE (and sex), I couldn't resist. You electrified me by talking about the pinnacle emotion / action of my life. ...Faith, hope and LOVE, but the greatest of these is LOVE!

Thanks for tolerating my rant everyone. I honestly try to refrain from these types of comments here because politics and religion are so controversial ...but I really couldn't help myself this time. I'll shut up now. [sighs of relief from the crowd]