This picture was shared on my FB page today. I am sure most of us are aware of this great commandment given by Jesus:

"And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” Matthew 22 : 39

Do you believe perfect love exists? I do. I see it everyday, everywhere and everytime. It's called love of self. Think about it. Would anyone not wish only the best for himself? Would anyone think of doing any harm to himself? Would you ever think of giving yourself a raw end on any deal you enter into? Would you deny yourself the comfort and ease in life if you had the chance to have it? You all know the answer to these questions. Of course, I will wish only the best of things for myself.

Why?

Because of love for self. Do you agree with me that there is no greater love manifested in this world today than love for oneself? Jesus knows that the love of oneself is the greatest obstacle to our sanctification this kind of love excludes even the love we should have for Him. And if only mankind channeled that love outward, directed it toward their neighbors, then peace and harmony will abound here on earth.

Is this possible?

It is possible but only by the grace of God . I can only think of the many times I have been terribly uncharitabe in thought, word and deed towards the less fortunate, family and strangers. Knowing I can be more kind and tolerant, civil and possibly loving is something that makes me feel totally guilty. The occasions when someone cuts into my lane while I'm driving and I go livid with rage and utter profanities at the imbecilic driver instead of just letting it go. Most often things can go awry at the grocery line because people seem to think they're the only ones in a rush and not to mention the many instances family would insist impinging on my time as if I should always be at their beck and call. I remember a friend posing a question to me: If someone in need asks if you can spare him a watch would you give him one of your own without hesitation? I will probably give him money to buy a watch instead rather than part with my treasured possesions. I don't care much about what color your skin is or if you've got a lot of money or if you're bipolar. What I really hate is being bothered by others. I just want to be left alone because I make it a point not to be a bother to others.

Well that just isn't possible is it? I might as well live on the moon or at the edge of the world wherever that is, but it does seem to connote no neighbors anywhere near. Yes, we all have to learn to live with each other, warts and all. We must learn to get along, forgive one another, help others, and love them as best as we possibly can. How? By imitating the love Christ has for us. He loves everyone and makes no exceptions. He loved us unto death, death on the cross, tortured humiliated, abandoned by many. Let us not harden our hearts against our neighbors specially those who need us the most.

Yep, no exceptions.