Love and do what you will

[truthseeker]

Originally Posted by Thomas

"Eros is acquisitive, egocentric or even selfish; agape is a giving love. Eros is an unconstant, unfaithful love, while agape is unwavering and continues to give despite ingratitude. Eros is a love that responds to the merit or value of its object; while agape creates value in its object as a result of loving it... Finally, eros is an ascending love, the human’s route to God; agape is a descending love, God’s route to humans...”
From the "Introduction to Eros, Agape and Philia" by Alan Soble

It is because of this that I would treat Truthseeker's comment with some reserve - although it is true and admirable - love is indeed a process, but too often, and too easily, the world gives in to eros, not agape, and the difference is everything.

I would go further and say that the whole social structure of the West is eros, not agape - the world is put to one end, the further material benefit of those who have - and this is what we call 'progress,' and our own material wellbeing is how we measure it.

Thomas

Profound - as always, Thomas. Like Luna, I now have the title to my next literary venture.

[earl]

Derek, was just reading the current "Tricycle," saw a quote by the Dalai Lama:

"A religious act is peformed out of good motivation with sincere thought for the benefit of others. Religion is here and now in our daily lives. If we lead that life for the benefit of the world, this is the hallmark of a religious life. This is my simple religion. No need for temples. No need for complicated philosophy. Your own mind, your own heart is the temple; your philosophy is simple kindness."

So there ya go. Have a good one, Earl