Steem4nigeria Accelerator Contest Week 80: ...When you're not loved in return

Myself @aspiya From #Bangladesh

^{The picture created by Canva}

Greetings Splendid Individuals

---

Today, I'm taking part in Steem4Nigeria Accelerator Contest Week 80: When You're Not Loved in Returnorganized by @steem4nigeria . Love is a great feeling, but it hurts badly when love is not mutual. Most of us at some point in our lives undergo the heartrending experience of loving someone who does not love us back. That is a hard reality that has emotional difficulties, but also teaches many lessons in self-esteem, acceptance, and moving on.

What do you understand by the concept "Love".

---

^{The picture created by Canva}

For me, love is not just feeling , it is a deep connection that comes with caring, respect, understanding, etc. Love is not just romantic there is love between family, between friends, and even for humanity.

True love is altruistic and without conditions. It is about being there for someone when things are not going great, being there when they are not their best self, and just supporting them for the way they are and not because you want something in return. Actions speak louder than words when it comes to love.

But love is not always simple. It takes time, trust and work. Sometimes, it hurts, especially if not returned, but even so, we learn through it about life and ourselves.

And love is life and it is everything, filling our lives with warmth, joy and meaning.. Without love, nothing's quite the same. That is why I believe in spreading love the best way I can.

Have you been expressing love? If yes, how have you been doing that.

---

^{The picture created by Canva}

Yes, I show love in many ways not just by words but by actions. As a mom, I love my son by caring for him, being with him and making sure that he is safe and happy. I show love to my husband, parents and all close people by being available for them, supporting them in good times and bad and performing little deeds that make them happy.

And apart from family, I believe love can be spread by being kind, helping others, caring for others, feeling for other people. For me, love is in the little, everyday gestures that make life more beautiful.

How did you respond to those who are not/did not respond back to you with the same energy you're giving out as love.

---

^{The picture created by Canva}

Initially, it hurt not getting the same energy that I put out. It would make me wonder if I was doing too much or if I even meant anything to them. But I came to understand that love is never obligated or anticipated in return.

I decided acceptance and progress was better than being bitter. I told myself that I am deserving of love and kindness and that I derive that from myself, not whether others reciprocate. I mean, if somebody couldn’t appreciate it, that was their choice, not my burden.
And then I learned to prioritize the people who genuinely appreciate me, and to love without losing myself in the process. It’s lovely to love others, but it’s equally as important to love myself.

Did their attitude discourage you from being that loving person that you are?

---

^{The picture created by Canva}

There are times that I have been hurt or felt unappreciated based on the way others have responded to my love and kindness. It’s hard to put your best foot forward and receive less than the same in return. But no one’s attitude has ever changed who I am.

The love I believe in is one that comes from within, and expects nothing in return. Not to mention, just because someone doesn’t recognize or respond to my love doesn’t mean I should quit being loving and caring. My love reflects who I am, not how others treat me.

Yes, they were painful at some point, but they only made me stronger. I continue to love, not for others, but out of who I am.