Loving someone is a two part gift shared equally when ones conscience is apparently working all the time and honestly and spontaneously giving freely. In our desire to succeed we make very exacting demands on our accomplishments that are physically measured by material gains.

However, the one area we totally and often times omit from discovery is our true north, our real self that is waiting patiently for self realization to wake up. Gift giving replaces the time we have lost with those we love and eventually becomes part and parcel of every day living and when special events arrive nothing new is discovered because we spontaneously give the usual form of attention; a gift.

What we fail to realize is that no one wants gifts all of the time, what we want is intimacy of personal interest and attention so we do not feel shallow. When we have this feeling we hurt deep inside but through time we mask this ache and a stiff exterior forms like a shell and our smile is lost.

Smiles come from the heart all the way through the eyes and if ever you see someone smiling and the eyes are blank you automatically know they are hurting inside. Creativity is one of our natural resources that has been deftly used to hide our true feelings and if you take a very adorable dog for a walk in any city during dinner time you will find numerous evidence of people needing attention even though they are dressed to the hilt and drive expensive cars with fabulous addresses.

Loneliness is not reserved for any elite group as it is apparent in all circles of society and we wonder why depression is widespread and therapists have full appointment books. The demand is growing so much that therapists may charge what they will and in certain cities and neighbourhoods it is almost prohibitive to seek the counseling of a good therapist.

We as a people have forgotten our roots, have forgotten that simplicity of life is more rewarding than material gains and more smiles have been measured through honest interaction than the most expensive gift. Being creative with your attention and listening skills will reap amazing rewards so why not try it out with your family and friends, especially those closest and dearest to you. Dia Dhuit agus beannacht De ort.