Unconditional loving is its own reward.

Miracles are expressions of love, but they may not always have observable effects. T-1.1.35

Unconditional love is usually not reciprocated. In fact, often the opposite is the case. Jesus teaches us to love our enemies. In the world of the ego this makes no sense. In the world of spirit is makes perfect sense.

In Alcoholic Anonymous it is suggested, in step twelve, that we carry the message of our spiritual awakening to others. What others do with it is up to them not up to us. Mother Teresa taught that we are to be faithful not necessarily successful. Whether we are successful or not in carrying the message of love depends on other factors that are out of our control.

In Unitarian Universalism we join together to affirm and promote the acceptance of one another and the encouragement to spiritual growth. This acceptance and encouragement often falls on deaf ears, blind eyes, and hardened hearts. We are to affirm and promote this acceptance and encouragement anyway.

Bill did many good and loving things for others. Very few people noticed. Bill didn’t need their recognition and acknowledgement. He liked being kind to people. It made him feel better regardless of how other people responded.

When Bill was asked about his not needing recognition and acknowledgement to continue his work of kindness to others, Bill said, “Being kind to others enhances my own sense of integrity and self respect and that is good enough for me.”

Today, remember that unconditional loving is its own reward because we experience the joy and peace of God.