LOVE- To a Four Year-Old

"What does love mean?"

This came from Sweetheart Girl tonight.  I think it came on the heels of our 'Good-bye, Daddy' and 'I love you!' routine as Daddy-man left this evening.  However it came about, it took me a tad off-guard.  Six children, and I've not heard that one before.


My first thought was, 'never having to say you're sorry.'  Obviously, soo not true, and she wouldn't get the joke. 

So what to say to a 4 year-old?  I think I said it was kind of the same as liking someone, being their friend, and treating them nicely no matter what the person does.  I was prepared to turn this into a 'teachable moment,' complete with God's perfect example of true love, but she said,

"Okay."

And she bounced out of the room.

So, I guess I missed my chance this time, but it got me thinking on what to tell her when she asks again.  Sweetheart Girl always asks again!

Love is kind, patient, always thinks the best of someone.
Love is service.  Giving, instead of taking.  Thinking of others first, yourself last.
Love is forgiving, whether or not the person deserves it, and whether or not you feel like it. 

So many things, but so far I can't even get these ones right! 


1 Corinthians 13:2  And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understanding all mysteries, and all knowledge: and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.