LOVE: OUR INHERENT NATURE, FEAR: A LEARNED RESPONSE

 LOVE: OUR INHERENT NATURE, FEAR: A LEARNED RESPONSE 

Introduction

"Love is what we're born with. Fear is what we learn." These profound words by spiritual teacher Marianne Williamson encapsulate a fundamental truth about human nature. Love, in its purest form, is the essence of our existence. It is the innate force that drives our connections, compassion, and the desire for harmony. On the other hand, fear, often stemming from external influences, is a learned response that can hinder our personal growth and relationships. In this article, we explore the deep-seated nature of love and the way fear shapes our lives.

The Inherent Nature of Love

From the moment we enter this world, love is our constant companion. Babies are born with an instinctual need for love and affection. It's a universal language that transcends cultures and languages. As infants, we seek love through our cries, our smiles, and our need for physical closeness with caregivers. Love is the nurturing force that allows us to thrive and grow.

Love is not limited to the familial bond. It extends to our connections with friends, partners, and even strangers. Acts of kindness, empathy, and compassion are expressions of this innate love. When we extend a helping hand or offer a listening ear, it is love in action.

The Role of Fear

While love is our natural state, fear is a learned response. We absorb fear through various channels: society, media, personal experiences, and even well-intentioned advice. Fear often emerges as a protective mechanism, helping us navigate potentially dangerous situations. However, it can also become a barrier that restricts our growth and fulfillment.

Fear manifests in various forms, including anxiety, insecurity, jealousy, and prejudice. It can cloud our judgment, hinder our ability to trust, and lead to defensive behaviors. Fear may even prompt us to build emotional walls to shield ourselves from potential hurt.

Unlearning Fear

The journey toward personal growth and self-awareness often involves unlearning fear. It means peeling back the layers of conditioning that have shaped our responses and perspectives. To do this, we must confront our fears head-on and question their validity.

Recognizing that many fears are rooted in past experiences or irrational beliefs is a crucial step. Practicing mindfulness and self-compassion can help us acknowledge our fears without judgment. By understanding the source of our fears, we can begin to challenge and gradually release them.

Fostering Love

Embracing our inherent capacity for love requires intentional effort. We can nurture love within ourselves by practicing self-love and self-acceptance. When we cultivate a loving relationship with ourselves, we are better equipped to extend that love to others.

Additionally, fostering love involves creating an environment where love can flourish. This means surrounding ourselves with positive influences, nurturing healthy relationships, and engaging in acts of kindness and empathy.

Conclusion

"Love is what we're born with. Fear is what we learn." Marianne Williamson's wisdom invites us to reflect on the profound simplicity of our true nature. Love is the force that connects us, drives us, and defines our humanity. Fear, although learned, can be unlearned and replaced with love. By embracing our inherent capacity for love and releasing the grip of fear, we can lead more fulfilling lives and contribute to a world built on compassion and understanding

THE ATTRACTION OF VULNERABILITY

 The Attraction of Vulnerability: Understanding the Image of Jesus on the Cross

Introduction:

The image of Jesus on the cross has been a powerful symbol in Christianity for centuries. It portrays a human being, naked, broken, and scarred, hanging in vulnerability. While it may be agonizing to witness, there is an inexplicable attraction to this depiction. What lies beneath this attraction, and why does it resonate so deeply within us?

The Vulnerability of Love:

At the heart of the attraction is the vulnerability of love. In this image, we see a human being who has embraced their humanity fully. Despite the physical and emotional suffering, there is a profound sense of love radiating from the figure on the cross. It is a love that goes beyond comprehension, a love that is willing to endure immense pain for the sake of others.

Deep Calling Unto Deep:

This attraction is best described as "deep calling unto deep." It is a recognition of something profound within ourselves that resonates with the vulnerability of love we see in Jesus. It is as if our deepest essence is drawn to the same essence within him. It transcends words and doctrines, reaching into the core of our being.

Overcoming Fear:

Jesus on the cross represents one who has conquered the fear of being human. He is unafraid of showing his nakedness, his brokenness, and his scars. In doing so, he invites us to do the same – to overcome our fear of being truly ourselves. It is a call to reveal our authentic selves, complete with our imperfections and wounds, knowing that it is through vulnerability that we find strength.

Setting Ourselves Free:

Ultimately, the image of Jesus on the cross serves as a reminder of our own potential. We are called to free the love that resides within us, often kept crucified, dead, and buried due to our fears and insecurities. Just as Jesus embraced his vulnerability, we too can set ourselves free to be vessels of love in the world.

Conclusion:

The attraction we feel towards the picture of Jesus on the cross is a profound recognition of the vulnerability of love. It calls us to overcome our fears, embrace our humanity, and set ourselves free to be channels of love to the world. In doing so, we honor the essence of that sacred image and fulfill our own divine potential.