The quote for this article comes from Sibilla Aleramo: “Love was the reason for my existence and that of the whole world.”
This sentiment reminds me of a song I enjoyed singing during my time with the Student Mission Germany: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son.” How do we often express our love? Most of the time, we do so through gifts, trying to outdo ourselves year after year. But is this truly what love means? Does it sustain us through the winter months, when days are short and darkness looms? Does it warm our hearts and bring smiles to our faces?
God gave everything He had to show that His own well-being is less important than humanity’s. Love means accepting others as they are, supporting one another, and striving to grow together every day. It is not merely about being superficially present for each other; it involves truly listening, even if we’ve heard the same story ten times, and acting as if it’s the first time. It’s about brewing coffee in the morning and having it ready when someone wakes up.
Love is evident in small gestures. It does not mean trying to please everyone or contorting ourselves to fit in; rather, it is about being respectful and mindful towards one another. Love is unconditional and sets us free. To love the world means to accept it as it is while treating it with kindness and respect through our actions.
As we reflect on the true nature of love this holiday season, what can we do to show respect, mindfulness, and goodwill to the world—or at least to our small universe? Let us commit to embodying love in our daily lives, spreading warmth and kindness to those around us.
