Just like me, you’ve probably heard over and over again that loyalty DOESN’T exist. To a certain degree, I agree with this negative opinion. But, aren’t we always supposed to look at the bright side?
Let’s take a more positive approach and think of it like this… Loyalty DOES exist. Repeat that to yourself about three times. How do you feel about it now?
We have established that there is a such thing as loyalty. Now, we must figure out how to be loyal.
According to Merriam-Webster, loyalty is defined as the quality or state of being loyal; a loyal feeling; a feeling of strong support for someone or something. Further research indicated that the word loyal means having or showing complete and constant support for someone or something.
After reading these definitions, I believe we can take this a step further with the examination of loyalty in relationships. In order to be a loyal in a relationship you have to:
- Be wise in the people you surround yourself with.
- Understand your worth and the value of your time.
- Respect them in spite of your differences.
- Support them in all their endeavors.
- Encourage them when they are feeling down.
- Push them when they want to give up.
- Correct them in love when they are wrong.
- Love them unconditionally.
- Give them healthy space as needed.
- Be honest with them.
- Be a trustworthy confidant.
- Know that there is a balance and allow yourself to receive loyalty in return.
Can you imagine what the world would be like if we could ALL implement these tips into our lives? If you say that loyalty doesn’t exist, in actuality, you are saying that YOU aren’t loyal. Today, I challenge you to strive to be loyal. Whether you are a loyal friend, boyfriend, girlfriend, parent or spouse, remember… there is always room for improvement.
Laced with Love,
Kelly Stone
SOUTHERN LACED 