Where Did You Learn to Love?

By: Ethel Chadwick
Host, Bagels and Blessings

I was at a small lunch gathering recently, and decided to ask the women this question – “Where/how did you learn to love?” It was interesting and quite informative to hear their answers.
Most of us learn to love from our parents or caretakers. Sadly, that is not always the case for everyone. As we shared our experiences, it became clear to me that I was blessed to have a supportive mother who loved me fiercely.
When you know someone loves you, you feel valued. My mother, in spite of her anxieties and fears, repeatedly showered me with praise, attention and adulation. She taught me to love God and to believe in myself. I grew up as a confidant woman who learned to face challenges head-on.
Becoming a believer in Yeshua in 1976 changed everything. Believing in myself wasn’t enough, I needed to submit to God and accept Yeshua’s atonement for my sins. Because God loved me, I could effectively love others. Letting His love shine through me has become my daily goal.
We love because He first loved us (1 John 4:19). And that has made all the difference.