“Genuine love may be operationally defined as those behaviors that enhance the well-being of children and assist them in reaching their full potential. Outward manifestations of love can be observed in people who make real emotional contact with another person; that is, they have frequent eye contact, display spontaneous, non-clinging physical affection, and take obvious pleasure in the other person’s company. In an intimate relationship, love is expressed through direct, honest communication, mutual respect, acknowledgement of each other’s boundaries, and a desire to share and cooperate.” – Dr. Firestone

In this episode, Chad and Stephanie talk about how Chad’s recent diagnosis of long term, “complex PTSD” forced him to get serious about answering the question – is it abuse or love? 

It’s a fine line between love and abuse, and how individuals define, feel, and come to know these terms might be the ultimate challenge of our species. Beware, there is no coming to consciousness without pain. 

Daily Mission: Think about situations in your own life and seek to answer the question: is it abuse, or is it love?

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