by Nurse Lauren

Love is a word with a significance and essence unlike other words. While it may be one of the most commonly used words of human utterance, to define it in any certain way is a challenge. Most frequently we see it used as a noun, as if it is something to be bought, sold, or won. People toss this word around like an overused towel, to be given haphazardly to one only to be taken away and given to the next. This is not love, this outward verbiage couldn’t be further away from what love is.

True love cannot be given and taken away due to the fickle fancies of the mind. Love is a constant state of awareness and depth that once realized, has no end. Love does not begin in the mind, nor does it begin in rationalities of thought. Love is a deep awakening of the soul to the current of life that runs through all beings, indeed, love is an act of remembrance of how precious and necessary each and every part of this deeply connected universe is.

True selfless nurturing love is the gateway to paradise on this earth. It is an act of courage and rebellion in a society that has convinced us all that love is everything that it is not. True love is not self-serving, nor a product of attachment. It is not to be contrived, or even defined accurately with easily misconstrued words. It most certainly is not for the faint of heart. It includes all the grisly bits that most would rather avoid.

True love is a verb, a perpetual series of actions and expressions. It is a willingness to be continually observant and receptive to the ever changing dynamics of life, in real-time. True love is to forever plunge into the depths of oneself, intent on discovering the prima materia of the soul of all souls. It is a commitment to self-study and self-mastery, which is imperative for surviving and thriving in this life. Just as you would study any course to bring about clarity and comprehension, time spent studying oneself is essential beyond measure. Giving ourselves graceful attention is how we learn to nurture ourselves. Nurturing is a sacred act. Nurturing oneself deeply is the ultimate embodiment of love in this life, for it gives us the tools required to nurture one another. Only to the depths that you have met yourself can you meet another. To put it bluntly, experiencing true love comes entirely from a change within you.

The act of observing and sitting with your own pain and discomfort brings with it the gifts of wisdom and empathy. Suffering knows no one race, creed, sex, or religion. Suffering is universal in its nature. It is in our sufferings that our humanity lies. Bringing oneself back into alignment with this fact brings with it the clarity required to walk the path of love and truth. Knowing thyself is the ultimate act of love and freedom. Tending your own internal garden is the only effective way to change the world. In tending your garden, you allow others to enjoy the fruits of your labor, it is the way to inspire others to do the same by virtue of the beauty they experience in your presence. Love is healing yourself for the collective, because we truly are all interconnected. If you want to learn how to tend your garden, it is wise to take some cues from the plants.

Slowing down is the key to gaining the perspective needed to take care of yourself, and thus, each other. Cannabis is essential at assisting with slowing down in this hectic day and age. Cannabis allows our nervous systems to relax and in so doing, assists the body to function effectively. Healing, digestion, organ maintenance, disease suppression, and so many other processes can not happen when we are in a constant state of fight or flight. Cannabis takes the body and places it into a space of calm safety and allows these processes to continue undeterred. Meditation, exercise, healthy diet, fresh water, and plant medicine are all crucial parts of self love in the rushed state we find ourselves in. Plants always remind us to slow down, as Mother Nature never rushes yet everything is always accomplished.

Take time to show yourself some nurturing love this Valentine’s Day, and everyday.

Doing so is how you can do your part to demonstrate this wisdom for the collective, and heal the world.