Agape

Agape ( /ˈæɡəpiː/[1] or /əˈɡɑːpeɪ/; In his book, The Pilgrimage, author Paulo Coelho defines it as "the love that consumes," i.e., the highest and purest form of love, one that surpasses all other types of affection. Frequently used in Christian theology the term agape is often represented in the form of divine love for God and his followers.  The word agape as an adverb translates as; Being in a state of astonishment, wonder, expectation, or eager attention; as with mouth hanging open or simply Open wide. (Wikipedia) Does not an all-consuming love often cause us to be in a state of astonishment with our mouths hanging open?

Love is a word that conveys many emotions. We have love for our family, love for our children, love for our friends, love for those that have gone from us and love for those that always remain. Perhaps, we may express our love differently but is not the end result ultimately the same? In the truest sense of the word, if we love--do we not love unconditionally? Is it even possible to love someone a “little bit”?  I think not.  Here ‘open wide’ takes on a new meaning. Allowing ourselves to love and be loved is life’s greatest gift.  It might be too frightening for some, it might seem unnecessary for others. The joy can be overwhelming, the pain excruciatingly intense. Sometimes love will come easily and other times it will be a struggle but when we need it the most, it will creep in and reminds us, that we are all better because of it.  

Today we focus our love on our fathers.  Warm wishes to all of the dads out there that raised children who know how to love! Whether they are still here with us or not we remember what they have taught us about life and unconditional love. They may not have always expressed their love in words but if we look back, it shows it in everything they did.    Thanks Daddy, I love you.