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Friday, May 1, 2009

Day 3: Love is Unselfish

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."
- Philippians 2: 3-4 (New International Version)

Upon reading today's challenge, was reminded that it's so easy to adopt a selfish perspective in terms of my expectations, wants, needs and sometimes demands. Furthermore, while I'm always quick to rationalize or defend my actions, I can't say I'm as kind towards Ed.

Quoting the book:

"We live in a world that is enamoured with "self". It is a trait we hate in other people but justify in ourselves....[however] true love looks for ways to say "yes"....When you prioritize the well-being of your mate, there is a resulting fulfillment that cannot be duplicated by selfish actions."

Although the spirit is willing, the actual doing is alot tougher.

If I'm going to make any progress , will have to start cultivating an "others-centred" mindset, make a greater effort to be more conscious of my motives (hidden or otherwise) as well as being more intentional in putting Ed's needs first.

Btw, I am still working on not making negative comments. It's so easy to forget that I'm supposed to be encouraging versus being critical.

Can I just hide behind my inherently flawed state of being? *sigh*

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