Before returning to Catholism, love was something I sought from others. I faced constant disappointment because I never was able to receive the love I wanted on my terms.
Unconditional. Forgiving. Without strings or expectations.
Now, I am aware that I can only receive this holy love by offering it first. I only experience this love when I give it, not because someone gives it to me. Finally, I can stop waiting for others to be the loving people I want them to be. Instead, I can be that loving person and experience the love I’ve always wanted immediately and first-hand.
These are my prayers to love as Jesus wants me to love, as I want to feel loved, according to 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.
Love is patient.
-Lord, help me persevere, knowing you are all-powerful.
Love is kind.
-Lord, help me be gentle with myself and others, as you have been with me.
It does not envy.
-Lord, help me be grateful for all you have given me.
It does not boast.
-Lord, help me be humble, knowing that I can’t do anything worthwhile without you.
It is not proud.
-Lord, help me give you all the credit and honor.
It does not dishonor others.
-Lord, help me see the value of every human being.
It is not self-seeking.
-Lord, help me to think beyond myself.
It is not easily angered.
-Lord, help me temper my anger and realize many times it is a defense against feeling inferior.
It keeps no record of wrongs.
-Lord, help me continually forgive and hold no grudges.
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.
-Lord, help me be joyful, knowing you are the way, the truth and the life.
It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
-Lord, help me surrender all things to love.
Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
-Lord, help me live with Love as the Law of my Life.
Amen.
The Radical Catholic 
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