Courtesy of EURWeb
In light of our beloved Whitney Houston’s untimely death, I was moved to examine the complexity of “Unconditional Love” versus “Tough Love.”
Many of us who believe in a higher power understand unconditional love. In His view, we are whole and perfect beings despite our many imperfections. What can we possibly do to lose His love? This rhetorical question leaves us wondering if we deserve such abundant love. Lord knows we fall short.
But even God, in His infinite wisdom, understands the importance of “Tough Love.” When love is tough it sets a standard. It doesn’t play possum, it doesn’t coward, hide or submit to unacceptable conditions. Tough love gets tough when the going gets rough. Tough love says “I will always love you, but I don’t like who you’re being.” Tough love will turn its back, yet keep an open heart.
I wonder how “tough” each one of us would have been in the face of Whitney’s struggles. Through the television and movie screen, it was easy to love her no matter. No matter her troubles, we loved her. No matter her faults, we loved her. No matter her imperfections, we loved her. As long as she lulled us with her impeccable vocals and wowed us with her God given talent, grace and beauty, we loved Whitney.