To Love But Not To Possess

To love someone but not to attempt to possess them is difficult, and most of us at least at times, cross this line. We can love "our" spouses and focus on the "our." But in fact, "our" spouses are never "ours" other than the brief moments when they give themselves to us.

For we do not control others. Self-control is the only control that any of us have.

This is true as well with "our" children. We play a vital role when they are young, but soon they exercise control over their own lives. What we had was our responsibility to love, nurture, guide and provide for them, a responsibility to be grateful for.

But as with "our" spouses and anyone else we love, we must let go and instead, focus on the love and support we have to offer them, and enjoy the love, respect and attention we receive if we have earned it

Rather than to pursue the illusion of possession of anyone else, to love and be loved is the greatest gift in life and one to be treasured at every opportunity.

Dick