Being loved is something we all want, and by the way, we all need. I have come to realize that love is something born in protection. When we love someone or something we want to protect them, even at the expense of our own safety or well-being. Why is that?

Perhaps it is because love is pre-wired in our system when we are born. Certainly, as a mother, there is no bigger drive than the love and protection of your children. But what about love in other relationships? Is it pre-wired too?

We must be clear that there are many kinds of love, but are there certain traits that we can identify in all types of love, from the first romantic crush to the established love in a long marriage or relationship? I think there are some key values that need to be present for love to thrive.

Here are the Five Values:

Empathy - I see you.

Respect - I honor you.

Patience - I too am flawed.

Kindness - You deserve this.

Compassion - I too have been there.

Now, for the romance part. It is fabulous to feel the adrenaline of a new relationship. Like I say: The thrill of victory and at times the agony of defeat. But even in those idyllic 70+ year marriages that claim to be eternally in love, their roots are firmly based on empathy, respect, patience, kindness, and compassion.

This Valentine’s Day let’s focus on a new journey to love. A love of self that is kind and forgiving. A love of our partner that is based on the five values. A love for our work and team based on shared success. A love of community that is respectful and nurturing. A love based on gratitude of our world that is our home and that takes care of our needs.

Love Ritual:

Pause. Breathe. Take a few moments to be. Then, visualize your heart. Feel its energy. Imagine fitting all the people and things you love in your heart. Let it expand. Fit your home, fit your city, fit your country. Let your heart expand. Then fit your world, our planet. Let your heart expand. Let all your love reside in your heart and let it linger bathing all the things you love in immense joy and well-being. Then…Go. Be it.