Although the term 'unconditional love' is often used in the context of a loving relationship, be that a marriage or family environment or in a more generalised situation, do those who use it really know what it means?

The true meaning of unconditional love represents an emotional commitment from one person to another, for which the giver asks for nothing in return. Unconditional love is selfless.

Generally, if we are in love with that special person we will expect this to be reciprocated. If it is not we become upset and saddened because we believe that if we are investing so much of our emotions into loving them the least they can do is to love us in return. However, someone which is showing unconditional love will not have such expectations. To them giving the love is enough and it does not require repayment or a commitment in return, nice though that may be. Indeed, they will rely upon trust and the fact that their actions towards the other person will lead to a position where their feelings are reciprocated. Even then they will not retract their love if the other person does not feel the same in return.

Unconditional love also means total forgiveness. Those who express unconditional love accept that we all make mistakes or commit an act that in hindsight we wish we had not committed. Yet the wonderful thing about being with or knowing someone who shows unconditional love in such circumstances is that they will not seek to impose guilt on another. The essence of unconditional love is that, when such mistakes are made the giver will not seek anything more than apology if they are subjected to offence or harm from the other person.

The other aspect of unconditional love is that it provides the ability to let go. Often in life, we are faced with situations where we have to make harsh decisions in terms of personal relationships. Whilst there may be a temptation to restrict another's freedom by using love as a tool to change their minds, unconditional love will not do this. It will see the greater cause of the happiness for the one who is leaving, no matter how much personal hurt it causes to the giver. Unconditional love will send someone on their way with a blessing.

Finally, it should be noted that unconditional love is not something that just occurs neither between a person and their love partner, nor with a parent to a child. It can also be shown by one person to a complete stranger. Take for example the soldier who so loves his or her country and its people that they are prepared to give their lives to protect them. Think of the person who can stand up after a stranger has hurt them or a member of their family and say 'I forgive you.' Think too of the people who take great risks to save others who are in danger and then walk away unnoticed or are prepared to give the organs of a loved one who has passed away to save someone else's life. Now that is unconditional love.

Learn more about this author, Paul Lines.
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