Affection Is Responsible For Nine-Tenths Of Whatever Solid And Durable Happiness There Is In Our Lives

"Affection is responsible for nine-tenths of whatever solid and durable happiness there is in our lives." C.S. Lewis, The Four Loves

Is there a difference between love and affection?  It is better to say that affection is a type of love.  Affection is the type of love that a parent has toward a child, or a child has toward a dog.  Little if anything is expected in return, yet it is a very real warm feeling toward someone (or something) whereby you want them to succeed and be happy.  Affection incorporates security, protection, comfort and approval.  When we express affection toward the person, it allows the person to blossom because they feel secure and appreciated.  Then, as C.S. Lewis points out, it creates a lasting, solid happiness.


We, as Christians, are to be purveyors of affection.  It is a missing ingredient in so many people's lives that when they encounter true affection it can be life-changing.


What prevents us from being affectionate?  I suppose, at its root, selfishness is what causes us to not be affectionate.  Being affectionate can be costly in the sense that affection generally does not expect anything in return.  Truly affectionate people are selfless and worthy of admiration and honor.  


The affects of affection are overwhelming and we, as Christians must be champions of affection. It does not have to be complicated or even require much thought. It can be as simple as a phone call to someone who is hurting, flowers to a spouse, or a hug.  As we are affectionate toward people, they will begin to blossom.


What can you do today to be more affectionate?