I asked one of our players to do an exercise in the weight room. His facial expression and body language told me he was not willing to cooperate. Trying to find some way to motivate him, I looked at him and said, “I would ask my son to do this exercise, and I love my son.” He stared at me with no emotion or movement. I didn’t know what he was going to do. Fortunately, he promptly sat up and proceeded to do the exercise exactly how I had asked. Everybody wants to be loved, whether a son, daughter, athlete, spouse, parent, neighbor, or coworker.
Love should be directed outward toward others, not inward toward us.People often are confused about what love is. There are different kinds of love: parental, friendship, erotic, love of God, and so on. Love is not a soft, sentimental emotion. For instance, in war, soldiers have chosen to die in battle with their friends rather than flee and survive. Love is a deliberate act of one’s will. It means I am willing to pour myself out on behalf of another. It is a choice, an action. Love should be directed outward toward others, not inward toward us. What does love mean? This is what it means.
Being Patient
My wife is habitually late. I try to exhibit patience as the clock ticks, knowing we will be late yet again. I realize that complaining only adds to the stress. Taking a few deep breaths, I wait until she is ready.
Being Kind
I asked and was granted permission to miss a day of work during training camp to attend my sister-in-law’s wedding. This event was very important to my wife and kids. I drove 20 hours in a 48-hour time frame to attend the wedding, only expecting the treasured memories of the event to be a reward.
Not Being Jealous
At my place of employment, I realize I have special gifts and talents, so I don’t have to be jealous of those who are recognized for their achievements. I can be happy for them.
Not Bragging
My son likes to tell his classmates that I am a coach in the NFL. I encourage him not to brag about me and reiterate that my occupation is what I do and not who I am. I convey that I am secure with myself and don’t feel the need to proclaim my accomplishments. I encourage him to be the same way.
Not Being Proud
When I make a mistake or am in the wrong, I do my best to take a position of humility and say “I am sorry.”
Not Discrediting Others
I do my best to see the other person’s perspective and he or she may be acting or speaking in a manner with which I may not agree. I have empathy because I realize I am not perfect and I have limitations.
Being Selfless
I expend energy in service of others. I do my best to make the people around me better by showing care and concern through encouragement or an act of kindness.
Forgiving
I do my best to settle those issues that I can settle. Although often very difficult, I try to forget those things that are behind me because I realize unforgiveness only affects me.
Not Being Easily Angered
I do my best to be at peace with everyone and try not to let the trivial affect me.
Protecting
There is no higher calling in my life than the role I play in my home. Before anything else, my dedication is to fulfilling that role as a husband and parent, which brings security to the family unit.
Trusting
Because of an honest and authentic relationship, I give the benefit of the doubt.
Being Hopeful
I try to see people as what they can become, not what they are. I look for their future potential.
Being Faithful
I am motivated to do what is right because I know my choices may affect others. Also, bring the attitude that there is no other option than to make it work.
Think for a moment about the people you connect with on a daily basis, particularly your family. How well do you demonstrate your love for them in the choices you make and the actions you take? The real test of our love is how we treat the people right in front of us. Love the people in your life.
Sound off: What does love mean to you?
Huddle up with your kids and ask, “What does it mean to love someone?”