Choose Love

In a world of constant change and upheaval, one thing remains the same… the need for loving, compassionate people. Choosing to live a life with a loving and compassionate heart, will lead to true joy in all situations, and a life of generosity and excellence. 

What is Love?

It is nearly impossible to separate love, compassion, and joy, as one leads to the other. For compassion and joy to be found in our lives, and the lives we touch, we must first understand love. Love is not simply a feeling, it's  an action. 

Have you ever fallen in love? It is no wonder that the phrase includes the word, “fallen.” We fall head over heels with excitement, and near insanity with those overwhelming “in love” feelings. Pure, sincere love is not that crazy feeling. Love is a desire to give, nurture, and deeply care for others. We are constantly bombarded with ideas of things we should want for ourselves. Our culture tells us to be selfish, and put ourselves first. Love for others is contrary to that thought. True, compassionate love, gives selflessly. 

In your desire to live an excellent life of love, it takes purposeful action. Look for ways to love others. Start with those closest to you – perhaps your spouse and family. Then spread that love out to your friends, and into your community. Sometimes the smallest gesture of love and kindness, can mean the world to someone else. Pray about where God would like to use your giving heart, and your ability to love and give will come naturally. Through sincerely loving others, we become compassionate people, putting others’ needs first. As you do this, joy will follow. 

Joy Is Greater Than Happiness

As you live an intentional life of love and compassion for others, an unexplained joy will follow. Happiness is wonderful, but temporary. It is a feeling which comes from moments of good times in our lives. Something happens and it makes us smile, laugh, and just simply feel good! We all want to be happy. Unfortunately, we can’t keep that feeling of happiness all of the time. Life can be tough, and hard times will come. To live a life with deep meaning and peace, we must strive for joy.

Compared to happiness, joy is a feeling of inner peace and calmness. It is a strong desire to give generously. It is an ability to smile, knowing everything will be okay, even when through the world’s eyes, it looks the opposite.  Joy comes in everyday life, when you are completing mundane tasks around the house, and a sudden feeling of contentment and love comes over you, knowing these mundane tasks are your way of showing love. Joy is leaving groceries on the porch of a neighbor who has lost their job, and walking away knowing they will now eat well. Your acts of love and compassion will bless others, and in turn bless you with an abundance of joy, and a life well lived. 

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Love Yall, Until next time. #spreadlove #choicelove

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