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The first angle of our triangle of love is that love knows no bargaining. Wherever there is any seeking for something in return, there can, be no real love; it becomes a mere matter of shop-keeping. As long as there is in us any idea of deriving this or that favour from God in return for our respect and allegiance to Him, so long there can be no true love growing in our hearts. Those who worship God because they wish Him to bestow favours on them are sure not to worship Him if those favours are not forthcoming. The Bhakta loves the Lord because He is lovable, there is no other motive originating or directing this divine emotion of the true devotee.
Source Vivekananda, Para-Bhakti or Supreme Devotion, The Triangle of Love, §1 · 📖 Read the full passage
✨ To meditate on today
According to Swami Vivekananda, true love does not bargain: as soon as we love in order to get something in return, even from God, it becomes trade; the Bhakta, the one who follows the path of devotion, loves the Lord simply because He is worthy of love. Today, make a gesture of affection or do someone a service without expecting anything, not even a thank-you, and notice the freedom it gives you.
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