We are all so very different. Never assume that someone you are fond of sees things the way you do. This assumption is probably the biggest cause of difficulties in our relationships. It certainly is for me! I misunderstand others and they misunderstand me.

It’s no wonder then, that most of our emotional and Spiritual growth takes place with the context of our relationships, provided we are free of egoism and dualistic ideal, as well as flawed attachments. A flawed attachment is one that supersedes the needs of the other in the relationship. The need for control usually rests with the one who loves the least.

There can be no pure love if there is selfishness, lack of willingness to compromise or values and ethics that oppose those of the other. The “need” for another is often based on a desire to receive something from them as a result of the relationship. This is not pure love. This is more like a business transaction or is based on greed. Greed can be a powerful force and when combined with urgency or lust, is likely the cause of most of the World’s troubles and unrest.

When personal relationships cannot exist in a peaceful manner, how can we expect diplomatic relationships to be any better? When there can be no lasting peace in the hearts of individuals, World peace seems very unlikely. As each of us live out our relationships with fellow citizens, so goes the World. Peace in one’s heart has the power to morph into World peace if we stop trying to force or control others in order to satisfy selfish needs. As we learn to accept our differences and situations, we learn to love.