The Tribune

1 Corinthians 13:4-5

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

In an interview with Tribune Religion, a number of Bahamians explained their understanding of the well known scripture explaining the meaning of love.

Love is patient

Anya Fernander said: “Love is patient can have many meanings, but one in particular is, having to love someone for who they are, and learning to accept certain things about them. You accept these things, even when you know that it is probably never going to change. It can be Agape, Eros, Storge or Philos love. You have to grow to love a person for who they become or what you eventually get used to. Their attitudes and personalities begin to become a norm to you because you learn patience throughout that love.”

Love is Kind

Amanda King said: “With patience, must come kindness and a sense of generosity in some way. Kindness can simply mean caring for others that don’t care for themselves. Giving without expecting anything in return. Lending a hand to a person who may never ask you for a favour, but needs one. God died on the cross for the sins of us, that is pure kindness. And if he made us in his light and image, then we must live like him.”

Love does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud

Megan Gibson said: “Envy is another word for jealousy. Jealousy is being resentful towards someone else’s possessions. To boast is to brag, and being proud is another word for arrogance. Love has nothing to do with either of those definitions. Instead, love is supposed to be the complete opposite. Instead of being envious, be happy for the success of others. Instead of being proud and boastful, be humble in life. Humble yourself and your days on earth will be better and longer.”

It does not dishonour others

Alissa Johnson said: “It is saying that love is not disobedient to others. At least not the people you claim to care about. How can I turn my back on my child? How can I see my family go hungry? That is not love. This thing goes deep.”

It is not self seeking

Crystal Ferguson said: “Love is never self seeking because love does not seek its own pleasure, well-being or advantage without regard for others. Selfishness is the opposite of love and when there is selfishness, there is no love. As Christians, we should always aim to walk in unconditional love, because when we do so, we fulfil the greatest commandment Jesus left behind. However walking in unconditional love and considering others will only happen when we build a relationship with Christ and growing in the love he demonstrates to us all.”

It is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs

Lisa Brown said: “If you love someone, you want to try to avoid conflict with them. And so instead of being angry when they do something to offend you, you want to talk with them openly and honestly, so that you can resolve the matter without hard feelings.”