Seldom do we understand the depth of our need to feel valued or wanted. We crave acceptance. We all look for validation. Someone who will look at us and let us know that we are okay, just the way we are.
Unconditional love is what it’s called and there are few that find it. If society had found it and had the answer, then we wouldn’t have a need for commercials. Current marketing campaigns would be radically different, wouldn’t they? These 30 second spots capitalize on our weaknesses and our insecurities. The very thought of being ostracized, isolated or unwanted is a fear we all have experienced at some point and time in our lives.
The most poignant example of being unwanted is found in the chain link fence and gate passageways that lead through the kennels of an animal shelter. The Humane Society of the United States reports that there are 4000 to 6000 shelters that receive an estimated 6 to 8 million cats and dogs each year. Only 50% of these homeless animals are fortunate enough to find homes. The other millions, like so many of us, are hopeful but dismisses, looking up to others for one glance in their direction, calling out in the crowd, listening to the tones of people’s voices, seeking a place to belong.
The difference is that unlike helpless animals who cannot release themselves from their cages, we have the capability to create a huge impact on the outcome of our lives. We don’t have to look to others to receive the confirmation of our value. They are not the ones to determine our worth. We are a treasure from the moment of conception.
Dogs and cats cannot unlock the kennels that confine them, but we can release our thinking from the chains of negative thoughts that bind and hold us back from the goals and successes we want to accomplish. Stop holding on to the encumbrances of the past, relish the present and anticipate the future. We can be realistically optimistic that there is something better out there and it can be yours. Just hold on to the truth that whispers to you in that almost inaudible voice that “you are a pearl of great price.”
As the world walks past you, and it will, instead of calling out for them to notice you, grasping in expectation of something to be given, I challenge you to give of yourself. Create your own surrounding of thankfulness, contentment and peace and share that with others. You have much to be thankful for and we all know of someone, somewhere, who could use some encouragement. Remind them of their blessings. This mindset will take you from being a victim to conquering as an overcomer, from the trapped to the free.
And if you want to really experience unconditional love, take a trip to your local animal shelter and look at the eyes of the homeless pets that are searching, like you once were. Find it in your heart to rescue another living soul. You will find a friend who will delight in you, consider you of incomparable value and shower you with total, unadulterated affection and acceptance. You will know without a doubt that you are among…the wanted.