Illustration: Emblematum sacrorum, c. 1624, by Cramer, Daniel

“Love is a purifying emotion in itself, making the total person a nobler creature. It is the power to move through the boundaries of personality, and to express one of the deepest needs of our human natures. The moment we understand that it does not require reciprocation, and that we have no right to demand love from others simply because we have bestowed it upon them, most of the hurt generally associated with emotional experiences is removed. Also, others may love us whom we never know, and to whom we are not drawn.

This is good for them, however, for love is its own reward, giving to those who experience it their first conscious kinship with universal regard and divine affection. If we demand nothing from love, except the light that shines within our own hearts, and do not use our affections to bind others or impose restrictions upon their conduct, we shall not be disappointed in love, and will not instinctively defend ourselves against the danger of personal pain.”