Here is an excerpt from a book written by Father Benedict Groeschel that he wrote in 1987 called “Stumbling Blocks, Stepping Stones.” It inspired me and I hope it inspires you:

“If you want to love, you must be willing to be vulnerable. The Gospel makes it clear that if you extend your hand often enough in a gesture of love, someone will drive a nail through it. If you love others, you may be deceived, betrayed an abandoned. if you love Christ, you must walk the difficult road to Calvary. but you will begin to see yourself borne by powers that are beyond you. It may not be very noticeable at first. It may be no more than patience with criticism, or extra generosity after you have done enough. You may feel firmly drawn to God even when you can’t pray. You will begin to change. … Love inspired by charity is one of the most potent forces in the world.”