Are You Wondering Where the Love Went?

How many times have you reached out to a friend in a time of crisis, just to have her turn her back on you? Have you ever had a relationship dissipate, slowly, without ever knowing why? Do you ever lie awake in bed wondering if your parents love you?

These feelings and questions can be more than heartbreaking. In fact, they can be soul-damaging. A person who feels unloved may not just be sad or unhappy—such feelings can lead to despair or worse. Remember, however, that if love isn't available from the source from which you seek, it probably cannot be given. This isn't a deficiency of your character. Rather, the person, or persons, from whom you desire love and attention may simply be unable to express such emotions.

Love Is Risky
Putting your feelings out for examination by others is extremely distressing for some people. These individuals guard their feelings with a fortress of defenses to prevent injury to their fragile egos. This can include friends, lovers, and even family members. You may be surprised to learn that your brother or sister cannot be truthful or forthcoming regarding his or her love for you. Ingrained competitions (older vs. younger siblings) may still be at work. After all, you used to compete for your parents' limited love.

Even parents, ironically, can end up competing with their children. Some mothers may see that her husband favors a daughter. Or, the reverse may be true with a wife loving a son so deeply that this threatens the husband.

love zone