“Love is love and nothing in between.”
Goo Goo Dolls
Beyond the Quote (Day 406)
Light is light and nothing in between. Where there is light, there is no darkness. Where there is darkness, there is no light. A light’s intensity might make it seem like there is something in between darkness and light, but “dim” and “bright” are both still expressions of light. Light can’t be exchanged for some other “in between” particle that might do the lighting instead. Light and the various expressions of its intensity are all that there is to dispel darkness. And so it is in life, too.
Love is the exact manifestation of what’s required to combat hate and indifference. There is no substitute force that can be used instead of love to dispel hate and indifference. Love is all there is. And the state of our world, in its essence, boils down to battling degrees of intensity between these forces. Darkness can be intimidating. Indifference can be thick. Battling both can feel crippling. But, when equipped with light, you have all you need.
The lighting of even a single match is enough to break darkness’ grip in the deepest, darkest, most secluded of corners. And if that match were to find a candle, it’s sustainability would grow. And if that candle were to find other wicks to light, it’s intensity would grow. And if those wicks found other wicks? And if some of those wicks found mirrors? And if some of the other wicks found(ed) organizations of branches and wood? And if larger and larger fires were created with that wood? The intensity of light would be enough to overwhelm even the thickest of darknesses.
But, the battle doesn’t end there. Darkness is always lurking, creeping, weighing in heavy in the background. Ready to regain its grip when the light fades away. Just as we have to work to keep our lights lit, we have to work to keep our love lit. We have to find ways to increase the intensity of our love while simultaneously working to peel back the layers of hate and indifference that’s blocking our glow. And we have to inspire others to do the same.
For, we cannot win the ongoing battle against darkness alone. We need an army of light to do that. And the army should never be seen as anything other than singular, committed, brave soldiers who stand together. The idea that there’s already an army of light fighting that fight (and that your efforts aren’t needed) isn’t an act of light, it’s an act of indifference—which is a vote for dark. So, be the match. Be the wick. Be the mirror. Be the wood. And shine bright in your corner of the world where darkness is trying to fight. We need all of your love and nothing in between.
Read Next: 50 Deep Love Quotes – And How Love Is More Than A Relationship
NEW In The Shop: Don’t Let The Tame Ones Tell You How To Live [Poster]
Why We ♥ It: Some of the best advice I (Matt here) ever got was: don’t take life advice from people who aren’t living a life you want to live and don’t take criticism from people you wouldn’t go to for advice. I created this poster to act as a reminder to listen more closely to our role models and less closely to our critics, trolls, and tamed-comfort-zone-hugger acquaintances. It’s also a perfect gift for the outdoor adventurer, travel enthusiast, or solo explorer (or soon to be). Available in print or digital download. 👇🏼
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Written by Matt Hogan
Founder of MoveMe Quotes. On a mission to help busy people do inner work—for better mental health; for healing; for personal growth. Find me on Twitter / IG / Medium. I also share daily insights here. 🌱
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