Article April 11, 1988 Issue

Ascending hearts

The human heart has many needs, but where can these needs be met safely and surely? What is the origin of love?

Joe Eller

I Had a sharp lesson once in what the heart really needs and where its needs are met. I had taken on a major project for someone close to me that involved many hours of work. But when I'd finished and was happily displaying my workmanship, the response was along the lines of, "Nice job, but it's about time!" My friend did appreciate what I'd done, but she was concentrating on other important things and didn't see the need to make a big deal of this project.

I was taken aback—after all, how could anyone not appreciate such fine workmanship (chuckle, chuckle)? But this experience has remained a valuable reminder to me. When our heart is disappointed in its quest for recognition and affection, isn't it because we generally believe that the human being, and not God, is the source of love? Or that the human ego can determine for itself whether something or someone (including ourselves!) is worthy of affection or approval or acceptance?

The truth is, the heart's need for worth, affection, and appreciation is always met through a closer bond with God, divine Love itself. Looking constantly to another person, or to other people, for approval inevitably results in a letdown.

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