Unconditional Love

Disclaimer: it's important to note that the views and opinions expressed here are solely those of the author. The information provided is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Remember to consult a qualified professional or therapist for any specific concerns you may have.  

Unconditional love is a phrase we often hear thrown around, but how many of us truly understand it? To me, it means loving without conditions or expectations. It's about meeting people where they are, without trying to fix or change them. Cherishing the moment and being present with them. But do I always live up to this ideal? I have to admit, sometimes I catch myself offering unsolicited advice or trying to push people in a certain direction. It's easy to slip into the mindset of thinking that we know what's best for others, especially when they haven't asked for help. While our intentions may be well-meaning, it can come across as though we believe they can't figure things out for themselves. It's better to wait for them to ask for our guidance.

But lately, I've been working on listening more and suggesting less. I've realized that trying to be an unsolicited life coach isn't the best way to show up for people. It's not about loving a potential version of them that I have in my head - it's about accepting them as they are in that moment. Of course, unconditional love isn't just about other people. It's also about learning to love ourselves without conditions. For me, that's meant facing my fears, understanding my triggers, and bringing joy to my inner child. It's about recognizing that I don't have to rely on anyone else for love or validation. This can be a difficult journey, but it's also incredibly liberating.

It's important to remember that unconditional love doesn't mean letting people walk all over us or accepting toxic behavior. We can love someone for who they are and still recognize that they might not have the ability to show up in our lives the way we need them to. And that's okay. It's also okay to recognize when we can't show up for someone else.

For me, the concept of unconditional love is deeply tied to my relationship with my father. He was someone who always saw me for who I was, not who he wanted me to be. He let me pave my own way and was there when I needed help. He always encouraged me to follow my dreams and just wanted me to be happy. When he passed away, I was forced to confront my own grief and learn to be everything I needed. Through therapy and self-reflection, I have learned to love and accept myself unconditionally, which has allowed me to practice unconditional love with others.

So, if you're struggling, just remember that it's a journey. It's okay to make mistakes and stumble along the way. What's important is that we keep trying, keep loving, and keep showing up for ourselves and others, without conditions.