“I define love thus: The will to extend one’s self for the purpose of nurturing one’s own or another’s spiritual growth.”
Love extends itself vulnerably for someone else.
Shame retreats from others in self protection.
Shame wants to hide.
Love requires exposure. It gives of itself. Vulnerably. Sacrificially.
Shame is self conscious...self consumed even.
Love forgets about self, losing itself in the object of its affections.
Love moves toward others.
Shame moves away, or is frozen.
Shame produces death. Love produces growth.
Shame comes naturally. Love requires intention.
Shame binds us. Love sets us free.
Shame and love extinguish one another, therefore we must choose one or the other.
Finally, love is what ultimately heals shame.