The Secret of Love
The essence of spirituality rests on the precious attribute of loving others. In this light, Rabbi Akiva said that a great principle of the Torah is to "'Love your friend like you love yourself." This teaching of Rabbi Akiva, reveals the secret of attaining the golden virtue of love. HaShem plants a wellspring of love in our hearts. We sense this inherent love in our care for ourselves, as well as our affection for our family and friends. The Torah advises us to tap into our hearts and love other people "naturally" the same way that we naturally "love ourselves."
Lesson: Love is an instinctual feeling of affection. The Torah wisely advises us to love others genuinely and not as the fulfillment of a rule. Rather, to love others by awakening love in our hearts, just as naturally as we love ourselves.
Visualization: Envision the love that Avraham Avinu has for all mankind. Imagine being in his presence and experiencing his warmth, care, and love. Imagine as you speak to your friend, the love in your heart for him continuously intensifies. Open and expand your heart and feel love, warmth, and compassion for all of your family and friends.
(Based on the writings of the Saba Kaddisha of Kelm)
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