Love: Expounded

"Love patiently and passionately bears with others for as long as patience is needed. Love doesn't demand others to be like itself; rather, it is so focused on the needs of others that it bends over backwards to become what others need it to be. Love is not ambitious, self-centered, or so consumed with itself that it never thinks of the needs or desires that others possess. Love doesn’t go around talking about itself all of the time, constantly exaggerating and embellishing the facts to make it look more important in the eyes of others. Love does not behave in a way that is prideful, arrogant, haughty, superior, snooty, or snobbish. Love is not rude and discourteous – it is not careless or thoughtless, nor does it carry on in a way that would be considered insensitive to others. Love does not manipulate situations or scheme and devise methods that will twist situations to its own advantage. Love does not deliberately engage in actions or speak words that are harsh, bitter, or hateful. Love does not allow itself to be provoked to the point of losing its temper and better judgment. Love does not keep detailed records of wrongs or past mistakes. Love does not celebrate or gloat when something bad happens to someone else. Love is elated, thrilled, ecstatic, and overjoyed with the truth. Love always protects, shields, guards, covers, and safeguards people from harm. Love always looks forward with all its might to believe the very best in every situation. Love always expects and anticipates the best in others and the best for others. Love never quits, never surrenders, and never gives up. Love never disappoints, never fails, and never falls down on the job. Love never stops short of total victory for everyone involved. Love always succeeds.”