In 1967, the Beatles released a song called, “All You Need is Love.” Written by John Lennon, the essence of the song is that to accomplish or have anything in life, all you need is love. How true is that? Of course, we know, depending on what you are trying to do, you may need more than love alone. However, with all the problems we face today, if we showed just a little more love towards one another, the world would arguably be a better place. It is my opinion that love could serve as a bridge to healing in our families, our communities, and the world at large — if only we are willing to give it and accept it.
There’s been much written about the power of love. The Bible says in I Peter 4:8, “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” Life has taught me that there are a lot of hurting people in the world today that just need a little love. It amazes me how many people feel like they’ve never experienced true love. Love can be a many splendid thing. There are different types of love; of which Eros, Philia and Agape are just three discussed. Let’s explore each of them and how they touch our lives.
Eros (Greek god of love) is where we get the word “erotic” and is the type of love associated with sex or physical desire. It tends to be a love one yearns for yet can be fickle as it is based mainly on emotions and emotions can change with the wind. Eros is the type of love we long for and when we experience it, it can be satisfying, but eventually becomes fleeting. Nevertheless, man continues to run toward this kind of love.
Philia is known as brotherly love (it is the root for our American city Philadelphia). This is considered the most sincere and platonic love of them all. This is usually what we associate with how we love our friends and family. This type of love often grows out of shared values and when the love is reciprocated. To experience this type of love can be very satisfying and has the chance of lasting throughout a lifetime.
Agape is considered the most cherished because it is based on selfless love and with a love for humanity. It is based on unconditional love. To give without any expectations in return. This type of love embraces compassion and shows sympathy towards others even when we don’t know them. This is the type of love we experience when there’s a tragedy such as 9-11 or even something more recent such as the helicopter crash killing nine individuals on Sunday, September 26, 2020. This is the type of love the world needs more of right now.
Love is powerful. It gives people hope and a reason to live. Now more than ever we need love, especially Agape love, to get through these tumultuous times and to help heal divisions not only in our country, but across the world. This Valentine’s Day, let’s extend Philia and Agape love to our family, friends and neighbors. Extend your hand to someone in need, lend your ear when someone just needs to be heard, and let’s try to be genuinely neighborly to those who are lost and hurting.
Maya Angelou once said, “I know for sure that love saves me and that it is here to save us all.” We all have the capability to spread a little more love even to the unlovely. Who knows… someone may consider you to be one of the unlovable. Remember, all we need is love.
Healing Without Hate: It’s a choice. It’s a lifestyle. Pass it on!
Visit www.WendyGladney.com and www.forgivingforliving.org to learn more. Wendy is an international coach, consultant, trainer, author and speaker.
