Show some love
Love is indeed mysterious. It is like electricity—we see it at work, yet cannot fully explain what it is. Even though it is one of the most frequently used words in the Bible and across over 6,500 languages in the world, its true meaning often depends on our faith, culture, and life experiences.
The Greek language, in an attempt to capture its depth, describes love in different forms: philia (friendship love), storge (family love), eros (passionate love), and agape (unconditional love).
Yet one thing remains certain—your understanding of love is a key determinant of the health of your marriage and family life. To experience fulfilment, you must understand and practice true love.
‘Odo Ye Wu’ (Love is to die)
Among the Akans, love is beautifully summarised in the phrase “odo ye wu”—to love is to die. Here, “to die” does not mean physical death but reflects a deeper, sacrificial meaning rooted in tradition: giving hope and strength to another, especially in times of need, without expecting anything in return.
True love is the gift of self. It is sacrifice, service, and sometimes suffering—the willingness to put another’s needs above your own to make them better. To love, therefore, is to sacrifice; and in sacrifice, we find the true essence of love.
How to grow true love
1. Be positive in attitude
Your mind is your greatest tool. Cultivate a positive outlook on your marriage and family. When you see good, you create good. Focus on becoming the best partner you can be. Often, it takes just one committed partner to influence and transform a relationship.
2 . Stay committed
Commitment brings stability, satisfaction, and happiness. Refuse to give up, even in difficult times. As wisely said, there are many ways to put out a fire—running away is not one of them. Share your life fully: your vision, time, and resources.
3. Practice humility
Humility means lowering yourself to uplift others. Make yourself available and supportive, regardless of status. As Mother Teresa said, humility is the mother of all virtues.
4. Be patient
Do not rush your partner’s growth. Allow space for personal development. Like fine wine, love matures with time. Patience, as the Akans say, brings victory.
5. Forgive unconditionally
Conflict is inevitable—marriage is not for angels. Like porcupines seeking warmth, we may hurt each other while trying to get close. Forgiveness must be constant and sincere. Holding onto resentment harms not only relationships but also your health. Remember, forgiveness is both a spiritual and emotional necessity.
Models of true love
Rev. Andrew Campbell, SVD, has devoted his life in Ghana serving the poor, sick, and marginalised, especially lepers. His selfless service reflects true love in action.
In Ghanaian history, the Ashanti king Tweneboah Kodua sacrificed himself for the stability of his kingdom—a profound symbol of love through sacrifice.
Similarly, the apostles of Jesus endured persecution and painful deaths, remaining steadfast in their love and faith. Their sacrifices remind us that true love often demands courage and endurance.
Show some love
For Christians, Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of love. He lived humbly, loved unconditionally, and endured suffering, rejection, and death on the cross for humanity’s salvation.
Let His life guide your understanding of love. If loving others requires sacrifice, patience, and endurance, embrace it. Through these, God strengthens and perfects you.
Each day, choose to love.
Each day, choose to sacrifice.
Always remember: Odo ye wu —to love is to give of yourself for others.
Email. Jydboakye.yahoo.com. The writer is the director of Eudoo Counselling Centre, West Legon. He is also the author of ‘Your Guide to Marriage, Love Unlimited and the Journey of Love '.
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