Finding The Love that heals us, and gives us courage and confidence
In my many years of medical practice, I’ve often seen the pain and devastation of rocky relationships, substance abuse, low self esteem, fears, and anxieties in so many lives including many of our brave soldiers and veterans. I’ve listened to tender and broken hearts whose burdens of sadness, worries, and anxieties about their physical health, job, money, legal or home-related problems were too much to bear alone.
Their faces and names are different but the stories I’ve heard throughout the years of practicing the art and science of medicine seem to mostly hover around the same theme: Life Is hard, and true Love is hard to find.
Indeed, far too many patients, military and civilians, I’ve seen and heard are hurt and discouraged by hard life experiences. They feel unloved, and doubtful of ever finding true love in their lives.
Friend, we can’t give what we don’t have. We can’t give away genuine love to others if we don’t receive it and experience it ourselves.
Truly, how can any of us live well without finding such love. Unconditional love liberates us. It strengthens you and me and gives us a sense of purpose. Without it, I can’t be all what I was created to be. And without it, we can’t accomplish all what God destined for us to accomplish.
Higher, purer, unwavering, and unconditional love is what I need. It ‘s what you need. That’s why there must be an ultimate Source of unconditional, unceasing, never-ending and genuine love Who loves us first with no strings attached. A Source who renders us loved, lovely, and lovable. It’s only then that you and I can begin to love ourselves and others.
This ultimate Source of unconditional love who loved us first is our maker and creator: God
“…God is Love”
1 John 4:8
Renowned American actor, Chris Pratt, who acted in multiple TV productions and movies such as Jurassic World, and the Guardians of the Galaxy series among many others said it best on June 16,2018 as he was presented with the prestigious Generation Award at the 2018 MTV Music and TV Awards.
“God is real. God loves you. God wants the best for you. Believe that. I do.”
Bishop Michael Curry’s Royal Wedding Sermon
As our country, and the world are challenged by unprecedented suicide rates, I find many who are in urgent need not just for good antidepressants and anti-anxiety pills, but desperately in need of finding genuine love. Gentle, sweet, tender, dependable, friendly, caring, and welcoming love redeems us from despair and hopelessness. It saves us.
“…Love never ends”
1 Corinthians 13:8
Views expressed here are only of the author, and do not represent the views of any other organization or entity. Information in this blog are not meant to be medical advice. Please see your medical provider or psychologist for any of your medical or psychological concerns.
Adel G. Hanna, M.D.
Author: Soldier To Soldier Heart to Heart
A Doctor’s Stories from a Military Camp