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Love is all around us. 

If you examine life closely, you’ll see it every day.

Love takes many forms, and it can be seen through the actions of others. The person who helps a lost stranger. The neighbor who delivers packages to your door. The child who cares for an aging parent. The friend who checks in on you.

No matter what your religion, the following Bible passage should resonate with most everyone who ponders the meaning of love:

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Almost everyone craves love. They long for the comfort, safety, and stability attached to the word—a perception that shapes their reality. They seek the many facets that define love: unconditional acceptance, compassion, and friendship.

Yet despite how many people may love them—family, friends, colleagues, acquaintances—most often, it is romantic love that people seek as the be-all and end-all.

When someone is rejected by their romantic interest, they may allow their world to fall apart temporarily. They may resort to self-destructive behaviors, isolate from their support system, and wonder what is wrong with them. This happens because they measure their self-worth, self-respect, and self-esteem on this one failed relationship.

We need to transform our perspective on love. We need to look at the many ways in which we give and receive love—become more attuned and pay attention. Romantic love is only one form, and can often be the most fickle and deceptive of them all.

Don’t look to be loved; it cannot be forced. And if someone doesn’t love you, it doesn’t mean that you’re unlovable. It means that you are being given the opportunity to allow more room in your life for someone who does.

Focus on seeking out loving individuals who are givers, not takers. Those who are generous of self, kind at heart, and truly aim to make the world a better place. Search for that person who helped the stranger. The neighbor who delivered the packages. The one who cared for his or her aging parents.

And be that person. Choose to love and act from a place of love—make it a way of life.

Stop and appreciate all of the love that surrounds you every day. You’ll find it if you look.

Anyone can say, “I love you,” but only loving souls will see it through—actions, not words. You’ll notice it in shared values, beliefs, and morals.

Love is a choice. Love is an action. Love is something you decide to do every day. Love is a way of life.

We are all lovable to someone; there is always a yin for the yang. 

Never settle; never compromise yourself. And be sure to see, accept, and receive the love that surrounds you. Live lovingly, and love will find a way!