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January 23

"(Love)..does not seek it's own"
   Everything we do in relationships has some kind of payoff for us. Even when we do "unselfish" things, it bolsters our image of ourselves as kind, caring human beings.
   If I've been trying to be "unselfish" though, and still find myself miserable, am I doomed to having to put up with such thorns in the rose of love forever?
   To "not seek it's own" doesn't mean that it is unloving to take care of my own needs. It is very difficult to be loving to my partner when I am stressed out, down in the dumps, or frustrated with my own lack of happiness.
   It simply means that it is important to my well being when I make choices that are good for me and my partner, or others. If someone has to lose, then likely so will I.
   When we take into account what affect choices will have on others, we become better aware of what consequences our choices will have. If I take the last piece of pie without considering my partner's feelings, what I may find out later is that I lose out on affection, and closeness over something that gave me only momentary satisfaction.
   When I make choices where I treat both myself and my partner with love, everyone wins. It may be difficult to do at times, but it is always worthwhile.

Just for Today
   Today I'll remind myself that it's ok for me to be selfish, when my selfishness helps me make choices that are loving for both myself and my SO. Loving choices may be difficult, but they always give me back results with the most value.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

@Copyright Bernd Hansen - Contents may be downloaded or copied for personal non-commercial use.