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A higher form of love

“Love is not only about liking, loving, and caring, but appreciation, understanding, and devotion.” — M.F. Mounzajer

Every day, they awaken wondering what challenges lie before them. Countless days and nights blend together, melded with suffering, frustration, and an ocean of tears. Thus begins the start of the day for many individuals.

Whether it is a spouse, child, parent, other family member, or friend, many of us have experienced this life-changing event at some time in our lives (some sooner, others later).

These individuals, as stated above, are focused on the care of others. But, you may inquire as to what this is called. My interpretation of this is that it extends not only solely in love, but far beyond that to what is a higher calling — devotion.

Devotion encompasses love, but love in its unconditional form. This group of persons is doing exactly what the Lord would want us to do, and that is to care and love others. They ask for nothing in return, but only to provide assistance to others; because in their hearts, it is the right thing to do. Every one of them will spend huge amounts of time and energy to care for their loved ones. This assistance comes in many forms, such as providing love, transporting to appointments, dealing with their physical needs, administering medication, comforting, preparing meals, and providing spiritual and emotional support. This occurs for some (to a greater or lesser degree), 24 hours a day, seven days a week with little respite, even, for some, to the point of exhaustion.

I have personally witnessed and had conversations with many individuals who have devoted much of their time and energy in caring for loved ones. They have followed through with the aforementioned ways to help, but much more as well. We should pray and give thanks to the Lord for them, as they are inspiring examples for all of us to follow. It is what He would want us to strive to be, and this is what the world needs now.

“There are only four words that mean so much more than ‘I love you,’ and those words are ‘I’m here for you'” — author unknown

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Daniel J. Paul is a retired school administrator. His columns focus on education, old-fashioned family values, relationships, and other topics. To submit comments or find archived columns, go to meaningfuldifferences.net.

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