Conserving, valuing and loving

In a world where division, conflict and enmity are applauded, we have to fight to keep those special relationships alive. Sometimes we take stranger, coworker or friend for granted who can later become more than family. All this because the prejudices, disagreements and external opinions work for the destruction of our relationships.

During these twenty-eight days, I was reminded again of what Romans 12:18 says: "As far as it depends on you, do your best to live in peace with everyone." This verse gives us a responsibility that we often try to ignore. We call it "something impossible" or we give it to others, with the excuse that "we already tried".

But is it true that we did the best we could? Or are we kidding ourselves? These questions are very important, as they help us reflect and evaluate how our heart is doing. At the same time, they let us know what kind of people we are. This is reflected in everything we speak, think, feel and act, since that is what we attract into our lives.

It is common to find people who know the qualities they look for in others. The treasure is in those who seek to be everything they seek. Today I challenge you to shift the focus from "what can I get out of this situation?" to "what can I give?" The best relationships are between people who have this mindset as they never skimp on words of affirmation, acts of service, time shared quality and/or gestures of love.

These are the ones who have left pride behind and embraced humility; have exchanged hate for love; do not give in to a disagreement and look for solutions; know when it is time to speak and/or be silent; are aware of the value of prudence and diligently seek peace. If our inner circle is made up of people like this, we need to value them! In the same way, let us try to be what we long to have.