Relationships (especially in our vocations) are Providentially meant to teach us authentic love - how to give it, and how to receive it. As a matter of charity, aggressive personalities must learn to respect others' proper boundaries, and passive personalities must learn to erect proper boundaries. And all of us must learn authentic forgiveness. 

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LOVE the Word® is a Bible study method based on Mary’s own practice: lectio without the Latin. Get the book based on Sonja’s method in the right margin, How to Pray Like Mary.  
L | Listen (Receive the Word via audio or video.)


O | Observe (Connect the passage to your life and recent events.)
Hold a crucifix in your hand, and meditate on the differences it teaches you between forgiveness, reconciliation, and relationship, and where repentance is required.
V | Verbalize (Pray about your thoughts and emotions.)
Tell Him everything in your heart right now. Take the risk, and ask Him to help you discern His message under the anger and hurt. 
Remembering that He loves you and that you are in His presence, talk to God about the particulars of your O – Observe step. You may want to write your reflections in your LOVE the Word® journal. Or, get a free journal page and guide in the right-hand margin.
E | Entrust (May it be done to me according to your word!)
Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful. Enkindle in them the fire of Your love, and there shall be a new creation, and You shall renew the face of the earth. Amen. +
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What We Discussed | Show Notes
Overview:
Minutes 00:12:00 – pop quizzes; back to the Garden; the New Adam and the New Eve
Minutes 12:01-24:00 – what is authentic love?; 1 Cor 13 and Eph 5:22-33
Minutes 24:01-36:00 – all vocations are married to God; Ephesians 5:22-33 as model for authentic marriage relationships
Minutes 36:01-48:00 – what is forgiveness?; erecting proper boundaries, especially in abusive relationships
Transcript
Click here for a transcript of the show.