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Do not waste time bothering whether you "love" your neighbor; act as if you did.
C. S. Lewis
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Acting with love towards others can cultivate genuine feelings of love.

C. S. Lewis suggests that the act of caring for others should not be contingent on our feelings. By behaving as if we love our neighbors, we can create a positive environment that fosters genuine love and connection, regardless of our initial emotions.

Themes

LoveActNeighborsEmpathyKindness

In practice

Example use cases

Using this quote during a community service event to inspire volunteers.

More from C. S. Lewis

A dogmatic belief in objective value is necessary to the very idea of a rule which is not tyranny or an obedience which is not slavery.
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I enjoyed my breakfast this morning, and I think that was a good thing and do not think it was condemned by God. But I do not think myself a good man for enjoying it.
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Aim at heaven and you will get earth thrown in. Aim at earth and you get neither.
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Forgiving and being forgiven are two names for the same thing. The important thing is that a discord has been resolved.
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I pray because I can't help myself. I pray because I'm helpless. It doesn't change God - it changes me.
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The instrument through which you see God is your whole self. And if a man's self is not kept clean and bright, his glimpse of God will be blurred
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