Unconditional love: A different perspective for Valentine’s Day

The other day I changed my bath curtain because it had mold all over it, even though I had bought it about three months ago. I remember going to TJ Maxx with my mom and picking out a plastic curtain the first time around. My mom advised me to get a fabric one because the plastic one would mold quickly, but instead of listening I jabbed my finger at the advertisement on the curtain – “Look mom, it says it’s mold resistant!”  She probably sighed and let me buy it anyway. Now I’ve spent an extra $20 that I wouldn’t have had to spend if I’d listened.

When I was in high school, I went to the corn maze with my family in the fall. It was getting chilly and dark, but I decided that I’d be fine with a simple long sleeve, against my father’s urgent suggestion to bring a jacket along. About 30 minutes after our arrival at the corn maze, I had a warm oversized jacket on…and my father was jacketless.

The truth is, all the advice our parents give us is only meant to help us. I think we all realize that sooner or later. They do these things because they love us. The more I experience the world around me, the more I appreciate my parents’ teachings, and I am grateful that God used them as vehicles to teach me the meaning of love.  

My parents taught me empathy for others.

My parents taught me to have patience.

My parents taught me to forgive.

My parents taught me to see the best in people.

My parents taught me to be aware of others’ needs at all times.

My parents taught me to compromise instead of arguing.

My parents taught me to be selfless and always help in any way I can.

My parents taught me to respect others.

My parents taught me self-respect.

My parents taught me to be honest. With others and with myself.

My parents taught me about love.

Everything I have learned from them has shaped me and how I pursue relationships with others and with myself. This Valentine’s Day let’s also remember and be grateful for the first humans who showed us love.  

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