Basic training: We’re already in the war.

When a soldier heads to battle, they go through training. They are not just thrown into the war zone with a, “Good Luck.” They go through a training course that tries its very best to prepare each individual for every possible attack that may come their way.

However, those of us that are not fighting a war with guns, are fighting a different war. A war that the enemy has done a very good job convincing us we’re not fighting. But the war is very real and we get to choose which military to join.

Did you know that Hate is not the opposite of Love? It is possible to hate something out of love, but it is never possible to be selfish out of love.

Since the war we fight is camouflaged, we must be on the lookout for the enemy. Ready at all times to combat it’s evil tactics.

Meet Love’s Most Wanted List:

Selfishness is always the victim. Selfishness whispers to think about how the situation will affect us and act accordingly. Do whatever is going to make us feel the best at the cost of all others. We see how to gain the most without considering the damage it may do to another.

Don’t forget to watch out for Selfishness’ many minions:

Pride: Pride tells us we have no other choice. We must behave a certain way or we will become less than. Our dignity will be lost. Our reputation is the most important!

Strife: Strife wants us to fight. We feel like disputing and arguing ‘just because.’ We must prove a point by all means necessary. Gaining status in the win.

Gossip: Gossip tells us to gain trust by chit chat and hearsay. We speak of others to avoid our own lives. We point the finger at someone else to prove we must have our life together.

Boast: Boast is a spoken trophy case, and Pride’s younger cousin. We want everyone to know our greatest accomplishments, while receiving praise. Our accomplishments are better than theirs, and they need to know.

Manipulation: Manipulation tells us to control the situation by playing on the emotions of others. We use guilt as our number one tactic to get our way.

Thank goodness we do not have to join that team! We have a choice to make, and hopefully the choice for us all will to join Love in the fight. So what is our team? 

Love is Selflessness.

We put the needs of others first.

We will only speak highly of others.

We will applaud the success of those around us.

We will protect the hearts of our friends and family.

We will see the best in others.

We will always fight for what is right.

We will be slow to speak and quick to listen.

We will always lift others up.

We will be optimistic.

We will be quick to forgive.

We will encourage.

Which team will you choose? Love is a choice.