Validation ≠ Respect ≠ Love

Many times we think to ourselves that these three words coexist with one another: “validation”, “respect” and “love”, but in truth they really do not. Remember when Chancellor Palpatine from Star Wars took an interest in the rumoured “Chosen One” who was Anakin Skywalker? Palpatine always validated Anakin to be powerful but never truly respected him as a human being. Anakin was always seen as a weapon of destruction and chaos, not an apprentice or child. However, he failed to realise it until it was too late.

We think to ourselves that if we just had enough followers on social media or had many achievements, respect would come hand in hand with it. However, it may not be true as certain acts of morality truly earn the respect of others because people will not remember actions or things that do not involve or affect them. Acts of kindness and generosity that positively affect people will have a special place in their hearts. This is because achievements and fame earned will fade over time. However, the impact we leave on a person's heart will keep lingering as a memory and feeling with those around us.

In this modern age, we often confuse ourselves with recognition and respect. Many often will remember you publicly through your fame, but forget you privately…Yet true and pure respect is revealed and often silent, by those who quietly remember you because of how you treated them when no one else noticed. Instead of chasing what is temporary, we should find peace and grow seedlings in the hearts of those around us and show them a brighter path.

Love, on the other hand, endures when validation and respect fail. I used to think it was a joke or a metaphor, but love truly prevails and conquers all, even when the world is falling apart. However, many fail to realise that love is never transactional…It’s never bought or sold but only to be given out of free will. The misconception nowadays is that anything could be bought, even love, but some people fail to realise that they are so poor that the only thing they have is monetary wealth. Love is not a trophy that can be openly displayed, but it shows patience, forgiveness and sacrifice for those around you. It is unseen but remains powerful like a flame that never burns out, it has the potential to change anyone, no matter how difficult the odds may seem.

Real Love is rare and an unwavering force that never withers but rises from the ashes. It is never stable or perfect, but unpredictable and chaotic. Love will be continuously destroyed and broken, to be rebuilt stronger with a hardened foundation. I myself have realised over time that even though I might hate that person, if there is love and care in my heart for that someone, the hate will be overruled as if a virus has infiltrated me.

We as humans aim for different things in life, whether it’s validation, respect or love. However, sometimes what others chase, we may not understand the reason for it. Some of us have less than others in each aspect of life, we will never understand the wants and needs of others. Behind every pursuit, there's brokenness, unmet longing, a hidden wound or even a silent prayer. We must remember that what seems shallow to us may be survival to someone else. I’ve gotten awards like no other, been praised for my achievements, and been respected for my deeds and acts of morality. However, I still seek love from someone who seems unreachable at the highest of heights. That is what I choose to pursue, the one that makes me feel complete and at peace, that I’ve completed my mission. As for you, I hope you find yours too.

This brings us back to where we started. Validation helps the ego to grow deeper in its ways, so it might end up as a big shot one day. Respect honours the deeds of those who choose to do right towards those around them and impacts their lives positively. Love is a drive so strong and meaningful that it blossoms in the soul that leading to the impossible and overcoming all.