The first rule of true loyalty and unconditional love is that there can be no deciding expectation of reciprocation.

We can decide to make our relationships conditional, or we can choose to endure the betrayal (and other ills that seem to pervade every interpersonal connection) and respond with unceasing love.


This purest form of love is illustrated in the lyrics below, written by Thrice. Obviously it is a love song from god --or some other deity, or nature, or just Life (depending on your beliefs)-- to me and you and everyone. Even though I don't have religious beliefs, I think it is one of the most beautiful expressions of our ability to take things for granted, especially the things that give and sustain life and make it worth living.

From tender years you took me for granted
But still I deign to wander through your lungs
While you were sleeping soundly in your bed,
(Your drapes were silver wings, your shutters flung)

I drew the poison from the summer's sting,
And eased the fire out of your fevered skin.
I moved in you and stirred your soul to sing;
And if you'd let me I would move again.

I've danced 'tween sunlit strands of lover's hair;
Helped form the final words before your death.
I've pitied you and plied your sails with air;
Gave blessing when you rose upon my breath.

And after all of this I am amazed,
That I am cursed far more than I am praised.