I learned over the years that it is more important to create my own happiness rather than expect it to come from someone else. No one can fill the feelings of emptiness, loneliness and lack. I have to find it within myself.

I know I cannot feel gratitude when I have raging feelings of resentment, separation, and blame. I’ve trained myself to take a gratitude walk. I get out of the house and walk through the neighborhood or nearby park and take notice of the beauty and abundance around me.

We must be love to find love. When we feel love we appreciate the preciousness of life and all that life has to offer. When we are in a state of appreciation, we have a greater realization of our connection with God, can see the bigger picture of life, and that moves us into a greater experience of love.

Love transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary opportunities. Loving someone without wanting or needing anything is the greatest gift we can give. Loving and accepting someone unconditionally is like sending positive ions or invisible vitamins to them. Love blesses the giver and the receiver.

If I listen to someone’s story, make someone smile or perform a random act of kindness, I’ve sent love to that person. When they feel love, they will share it with someone in their circle of influence. The experience has a ripple effect, like a stone being tossed in the water. Not only have I sent love to another person, I have expanded the experience for myself.

Love is an inside job. It starts with letting go of the pain from the past. As we acknowledge and appreciate others, we begin to receive it ourselves. And it is contagious!