Did I mention I’m a single mother? I was determined to write day 90, hours ago but between a conversation with my daughter and pointless scrolling on social networks… I got side tracked. I digress. I thought I knew what love was, then she was born and she ruined everything!

Ugh kids!

She totally ruined my ideal notion of love, that love meant you’d always know the right thing to say and how to make the person you love feel better. Sometimes you can’t do anything but be present, and sometimes because they’re hurting so much – you can’t even do that!

You know what else she ruined? My selfishness. I thought love was all about me, it would make me happy, love would fulfill me, love would mean I’m never alone. Love love love! She ruined it alright, she taught me what love was really about… The object of your affection.

I found true love, in my daughter’s eyes. They glow anytime I get near her and it draws me in that much more. She believes in me for no reason other than me being her mom. She loves me, once again – for no reason! I would give up everything I desire if it meant she could have everything she desires. She taught me how to love.

Here’s what my daughter taught me:
Love is selfless.
There are no prerequisites to loving someone.
Love everybody, even when they don’t deserve it because that’s when they need it most.
Believe in the people you love, it helps them to believe in themselves.

Love one another with brotherly affection [as members of one family], giving precedence and showing honor to one another. (‭Romans‬ ‭12‬:‭10‬ AMP)

Love – it’s not about you.

– Shakeisha M.