Love is a variety of different feelings, states, and attitudes that range from interpersonal affection (“I love my mother”) to pleasure (“I loved that meal”). It can refer to an emotion of a strong attraction and personal attachment. It can also be a virtue representing human kindness, compassion, and affection—”the unselfish loyal and benevolent concern for the good of another”. It may also describe compassionate and affectionate actions towards other humans, one’s self or animals. (Wikipedia)

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While taking a brisk walk around my subdivision and listening to my iPod,”All You Need is Love” began to play. I’ve always felt this John Lennon classic was revolutionary and served up some tremendous food for thought.

Living life with a loving purpose is not easy. Opening up your heart to those who disagree with you. Loving those whom you claim to hate. Understanding that we are all one and what you do to others affects not only their life but yours as well. We are not all good nor all bad.

I’ve mentioned before how I revere and often reference Don Miguel Ruiz’s brilliant guidebook, “The Four Agreements”. He really opened my eyes to a definition of an all-encompassing view of love; accepting the concept that the worse person I can think of is part of me. Cult leader and murderer Charles Manson became my love/acceptance test. If we are all one, then Manson is part of the circle.

To be truthful, I still struggle with the idea that there is a human connection between Manson and myself. However, he is a reminder that the full range of emotions we all possess can be used for the benefit of mankind or its detriment. We decide because we all have the ability to write our own story. Bring to fruition our dreams and desires.

Commit to love and peace 

John Lennon believed this even back in the turbulent times of the 1960’s. “All You Need is Love” is an anthem and vision that we can turn this world around. If we take the leap of faith.

Hating is easy. Loving can be hard. Our skin is merely a covering. Underneath we are all the same. Spirits created by God.