“I do not love in order that I may be loved back again, but for the creative joy of loving.” – Attitudes of Gratitude in Love 

Prior to fully immersing myself into my daily recovery practices, I loved others, in large part, so that they would love me. I thought, “If only they would love me, I would be happy.” The problem with this thinking is that expectation leads to resentment, particularly when it comes to loving. These days I love not so much to be loved by others (though that’s nice too), but to love myself. In other words, when I practice loving others with no expectation of love in return, I love who I am. And loving the man I’ve become – an unconditional lover – is a big reason why ILML! 💜

– JamieQ