Red Hot Ruby's

The topic of love has been written about, sung about, talked about, theorized, commercialized, monetized, and fought over forever.  This writer will not pretend to know what the “right” definition is, I don’t believe that there is one, but many.  I like thinking about it. Just like you!  I think that love may indeed behave organically, shifting to some degree, evolving in a way that defies words.  Love may be a language that only the heart can hear and speak.  Love is an energy.  But the variety of descriptions and expressions has great value, so let’s consider some of them.

In writing this companion script for my painting about love, I chased many definitions.  Many have value and should be considered.  But I come back to a line in the book “All about love” by powerhouse author bell hooks.  She describes love as “a combination of trust, commitment, care, respect, knowledge and responsibility”.  She is not speaking exclusively of romantic love, although these qualities must certainly be foundationally present for a romantic relationship to succeed long term.  This is about loving as a daily practice in ALL our interactions. For example, if I accept the above as a descriptive of love, then I certainly love my job, the people with me in traffic, and of course, my family.  That’s a think.

But what about practicing these values on myself? Self-love is vital. Let’s re-write this as an inventory, let’s use this as a mirror.  It will go something like this: Do I trust myself?  Am I committed to myself?  Do I care about myself?  Do I respect myself?  Do I know myself?  Am I responsible for myself?

Now that’s some love right there. 

Art and words by me; Ruby Karen A. Wilcox, CRP, AGS, CADC, Life Coach

This original watercolor can be purchased here: Angel Heart OOAK Original Watercolor Painting – Etsy

I am taking clients for my online Life Coaching practice beginning January 2026. You matter to me and I would LOVE to support your journey. Please reach out to me using the form below with any questions or comments. Blessings!