1Love is sufficient of itself; it gives pleasure by itself, and because of itself. It is its own merit, its own reward. Love looks for no cause outside itself, no effect beyond itself. Its profit lies in its practice.
2I love because I love. I love in order that I may love. Love is a great thing, a great good in every way, since it alone lightens what is heavy and bears what is uneven in life with equanimity.
3For it carries a burden which is no burden, and makes everything that is bitter sweet and tasteful. The love of Jesus is noble and generous; it spurs us to do great things and excites us to desire always what is most perfect.
4Love would ascend to the highest places and will not be held back by anything low or mean. Love desires to be free and estranged from every worldly affection, so that its inner vision may not be hindered.
5Nothing is sweeter than love, nothing stronger, nothing higher, nothing wider, nothing more pleasant, nothing fuller or better in heaven and earth; because love is born of God, and cannot rest but in God, above all created things.
6The one who loves, flies, runs, and rejoices; he is free and nothing holds him back. He gives all for all, and has all in all, because he rests in One above all, from whom all good flows and proceeds.
7He looks not at the gift but turns himself to the Giver above all goods. Love often knows no limit, but is fervent beyond all measure. Love feels no burden, thinks nothing of trouble, attempts what is above its strength.
8It does not plead impossibility, for it thinks all things lawful and possible for itself. It is therefore able to undertake all things, and it completes many things and brings them to effect, where one who does not love would faint and lie down.
Already have an account? Log in