agape

| a – ga – pe |

It is defined as the highest form of love. An unconditional, selfless love that persists no matter the circumstances. This love flows from the Spirit and is said to be always giving; devoting total commitment to seek the highest and the best.

Studied and denoted by Ancient Greeks, this form of love is one of eight types of love. The other forms of love (all equally mysterious) are: Philautia, Mania, Philia, Pragma, Storge, Eros, and Ludus. Each beautiful form of love creates its own euphoric space and leaves one yearning for more. If you are not familiar with theses eight types of love, take the journey, and do some research on them! I resonate with some stronger than others and based on where you are on your life’s journey, some may resonate with you more as well.

As I read back the description of agape; I take in a deep breath, fill my heart with hope, and envision a world in which agape exists ever-so-effortlessly. As stated earlier, the Spirit is the catalyst (an agent that initiates change or action) for agape. Spirit is the creator of one’s purpose which is greater than oneself; and that same Spirit enables human kindness to be projected from oneself onto others.

That was a lot to take in, right? Truth is, love is very simple, yet clearly, when placed in the hands of human flesh, it becomes overly complicated! 

There is a reality in this life that everything is connected, and each connection serves a greater purpose to another connection. It can be human nature to compartmentalize those connections and unintentionally overlook its significance. However, it is our responsibility to seek that knowledge for higher understanding and begin to connect the dots. What we see, at times, and perceive can be deceiving, but when we tune-in to a higher power, what we feel can defy conditioned understanding and further open our minds and hearts to agape.

As perfect as “unconditional, selfless love that persists no matter the circumstances” sounds; the reality is that there is nothing easy about acting on that love. In times of turmoil, hurt or suffering, the human Spirit vibrates at a lower energy. That lower energy is depleting and drains mind, body and soul. They say that “time heals all wounds” and I would agree with that to some extent. However, there is also a saying that “hurt people, hurt people”. I would challenge the above statement and rephrase it as… with time, self-reflection, active healing (to include forgiveness of self and others), along with an acknowledged, conscious decision to vibrate at a higher level, can agape be achieved. 

I believe it is Divine Conspiracy that keeps us on a continual journey of discovery and rediscovery. When we “forget” what we have learned, or become “distracted” by life, Spirit will guide us and remind us of our purpose. If we seek, and listen for understanding, chances are – we will hear!

A thought on connecting the dots… In most Christian faiths, Forgiveness Sunday happens the Sunday prior to Great Lent. For the Orthodox faith (my faith) this day was acknowledged this past Sunday. For those who believe and practice; forgivingness is about opening the doors of reconciliation (with mercy) and “letting go” of the pain and moving forward (gracefully) in life. Forgiveness pardons the offender without excusing or justifying their behavior. However, the act of forgiveness frees and aids in the healing of the afflicted soul, and furthermore, allows mercy and healing on the soul that caused one’s pain. By human nature, the gift of forgiveness is one of the most challenging “gifts” to give to an individual, especially if that individual has caused great suffering. However, if we accept a higher understanding and make a conscience decision to offer forgiveness; that faithful act allows for growth in character, embodies spiritual, mental and emotional strength, and ultimately demonstrates the true meaning of agape. 

Without unconditional, selfless love that persists no matter the circumstances, humanity cannot reach a higher vibration. As humanity, we are told, “Above all, love each other deeply because love covers over a multitude of sins.” – 1 Peter 4:8

Again, a lot to take in, right? Reality is that even the most religious and/or spiritual beings struggle with forgiveness, and the journey of forgiveness is not about displaying perfect actions. Self-love (agape) is the first step to self-forgiveness, and with that self-forgiveness comes a higher vibration with the awareness of the powers that forgiveness possesses. It than becomes a decision to offer the “gift” of forgiveness to another.

So, as I reflect on these words, I take in a deeper breath, continue to fill my heart with hope, and pray for a world in which agape continually exists amongst humanity.

LOVE, with all my HEART,

Natalie

Love is patient, love is kind.

It always protects, always trusts

always hopes, always perseveres.

Love never fails.

1 Corinthians 13:4. 7-8