Often in this world, we are only focused on our own needs. When it comes to other people in our lives, we neglect their presence an take it for granted. Sometimes we don't do what other people need of us. Sometimes we're way below the bar, doing the bare minimum that it takes because we're lazy. The people who stick around through these times deserve so much more than that, especially for putting up with poor effort on our part.

The world is cruel and really could use more people who believe that when you care about someone, you should always be doing things to show them, no matter how much time has passed. This is probably why we fall in love with love stories and crave the type of relationship that people like Thomas Rhett and Lauren Akins have. We're drawn to the people full of life and full of love. The people who make sure that we feel special and important every time we cross paths with them. It's full of good intentions and pure, unconditional love. It's based on knowing how to love each other and love each other well. Real love is full of sacrifice and compromise and a never quitting desire to make the other person happy, disregarding your own wants and needs to satisfy theirs. For some people, they don't know what loving others well looks like, whether that be in a relationship or in everyday life.

To love others well, you're going to have to start changing your mentality. It's time to start giving your life away and living for others as opposed to selfishly living for yourself. Be selfless, not selfish. You're going to have to put aside the prideful thought that you need others to display their affections for you before you give an inch. Let go of the idea that others have to give you things for you to give in return.

Let. Your Pride. Go.

Understand that there will be people who have different thoughts and opinions than you. That does not make you wrong and them right, or vice versa, unless they are advocating for something that is morally unsound. Thoughts and opinions do not need to drive a wedge between the two of you and cause unwanted strife where it doesn't need to be. Respect others and explain your side. If you agree with one point of theirs, tell them. If you still disagree with their point, be respectful with why you do not agree. Don't let disagreements bruise your ego - instead, see if you can learn something.

Let. Your Pride. Go.

There are people who are going to have different talents than you do. You will not be blessed in all areas of life, but guess what -- neither will they. You might excel above them in one area, but they might have better success than you in another. That does not make you better than them, or them better than you. Appreciate the gifts that they are given. Not in a fake way, because people can see right through people who are not genuine, but truly admire the gifts they have and immerse yourself in them as well. If they excel at painting while you're no better than a kindergartner, encourage them to paint more. Ask them to paint something for you. Buy one of their paintings. If that's where they find their passion, uplift those parts of them.

It's something they love, so learn about it. Learn FROM it. Learn what different styles of painting are. Paint with them even if you know yours won't turn out. They'll be grinning ear to ear that you took the time to learn about something they care about. In the end, you're not only learning about painting, but you're going to learn so much more about the other person. Having your talents recognized and paid attention to means so much, especially when people are doing it just so they can learn about you. Even if you don't particularly like it as much as them, they'll appreciate it. Even if it isn't something "cool" to like.

Let. Your Pride. Go.

The last point I'll make for now is this: associate with people from all backgrounds. Your skin color, age, gender, sexuality, societal position -- none it matters. Everyone has something to offer. Be kind to all. That's not to say you have to be close to all, but be kind and loving towards all. The world doesn't need more hateful people. Do not be proud of your position. We are all human and can all easily fall victim to the same situations and fates. The golden rule here undoubtedly stands -- love your neighbor as yourself. Make no enemies by loving everyone, despite how other people might sometimes be. Don't seek revenge on others for their poor treatment -- they will have to answer to someone else and get it in due time. Destroy your enemy by making him your friend.

Let. Your Pride. Go.

To be continued.