Unselfish Love

Philippians 4:4 – “Let everyone see that you are unselfish.”
     One of my consulting assignments gives me the privilege to observe caretakers working with individuals with variant levels of developmental disabilities. Most of their clients are mentally disabled and have crippling physical abnormalities which require assistance with normal daily activities that we take for granted – feeding, hygiene, clothing and walking.
     Often society believes that we should detach ourselves emotionally when working with the severely retarded or extremely disabled individuals. They are often considered ‘vegetables’ and treated like objects to be regularly fed, turned and bathed. But I have observed the staff to sing, play, laugh and love their charges in a way that is so endearing that love permeates the homes where they live.
     Love, God’s love means giving to those who seem to have little or nothing to give back. It challenges the innate selfishness in each of us and goes against our grain; but it is love in its highest form. You may not interact on a regular basis with individuals who are helplessly dependent upon you, but think about your own vulnerabilities and give God praise for the times when you needed someone to act on your behalf when you could not do so for yourself. Did a supervisor or co-worker speak up for you when you might have been falsely accused? Did a family member or friend pay a bill that kept you from being in the dark or without vital services? Did someone offer a ride when your transportation options were limited?
     All of us have experienced being in a point of needing unselfish love – remember that feeling and lavish it on someone today.
     Every day is a good day; it is up to us to make it a victoriously GREAT day. Be blessed Dr. JoAnn