The More Love You Give

Topic: Love, Compassion, & Kindness

If you send out goodness from yourself, or if you share that which is happy or good within you, it will all come back to you multiplied ten thousand times. In the kingdom of love there is no competition; there is no possessiveness or control. The more love you give away, the more love you will have.

John O’Donohue

John O'Donohue, born on January 1, 1956, in County Clare, Ireland, was a poet and author recognized for his contemplative approach to spirituality and nature. His early years, surrounded by the stark beauty of the Irish landscape, had a profound impact on his life's work. He studied at St. Patrick's College, Maynooth, where he completed his Ph.D. focusing on the philosophy of Hegel. O'Donohue was fluent in Irish, a skill that connected him deeply with his cultural roots and the literary heritage of his homeland.

After his ordination and time spent serving as a priest, O'Donohue shifted his focus to writing and public speaking. His works, including "Anam Cara" and "Beauty," reflect his commitment to revealing the interplay between the spiritual and the tangible. O'Donohue's philosophical background informed his writing, allowing him to present complex ideas with clarity. His books, examining the nuances of human relationships and the natural world, garnered attention for their depth and insight.

O'Donohue passed away on January 4, 2008. His contributions to the fields of philosophy, spirituality, and literature remain valued for their introspection and wisdom. His understanding of Celtic traditions and his perspective on the human experience continue to be appreciated by readers looking for substance and reflection in their contemplative pursuits.

(1956-2008) Celtic Spirituality
Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom

O'Donohue, John. Anam ċara: a Book of Celtic Wisdom. Harper Perennial, 2004.

John O’Donohue

Theme: Love

About This John O’Donohue Quotation [Commentary] Anam ċara

John O’Donohue’s quote, “The more love you give away, the more love you will have,” from his book Anam Ċara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom presents a profound insight into the expansive nature of love. He explains that love is not a finite resource but an ever-growing force that amplifies as it is shared. This idea is beautifully encapsulated in the notion that “if you send out goodness from yourself, or if you share that which is happy or good within you, it will all come back to you multiplied ten thousand times.” This perspective resonates deeply with the universal principle of reciprocity, emphasizing that the positive energy we emit into the world returns to us in abundance, enriching our own lives and the lives of others.

O’Donohue further elaborates on the essence of love by stating, “In the kingdom of love there is no competition; there is no possessiveness or control.” This challenges the often transactional nature of modern relationships, where love is sometimes seen as something to be possessed or controlled. Instead, O’Donohue envisions a realm where love is selfless and free from the constraints of ego and ownership. In this ideal, love flourishes through mutual respect, understanding, and freedom, promoting relationships where each individual’s unique worth is celebrated without the need for control or possession. This vision urges us to transcend our egocentric tendencies and embrace a more liberated and genuine form of love.

The concluding thought, “The more love you give away, the more love you will have,” highlights the regenerative power of love. Unlike material possessions that deplete as they are shared, love grows and intensifies through the act of giving. This concept is exemplified in the practice of Anam Ċara, or soul friendship, where individuals share their deepest selves without fear of judgment. In such relationships, giving love and support not only strengthens the bond between friends but also nourishes the giver’s own spirit. By fostering an environment of unconditional love and acceptance, we create a ripple effect that enhances our own lives and the lives of those around us, ultimately contributing to a more compassionate and loving world.

Commentary By Krista Tippett

Krista Tippett, in her reflections on John O’Donohue’s Anam Ċara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom, appreciates his unique blend of philosophy, poetry, and spirituality. She discusses O’Donohue’s view that everyone is an artist, involved in the creative act of living, which she finds deeply resonant. Tippett highlights his insights on time and the importance of slowing down to embrace life’s deeper rhythms. She notes, “O’Donohue was poetic about the possibility of creating our own inner landscapes of beauty, to keep us vital in the midst of bleak and dangerous surroundings and experiences” (The On Being Project) (The On Being Project). This encapsulates her admiration for his ability to articulate the transformative power of beauty and spiritual friendship.

—O’Donohue, John. Anam Ċara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom. Harper Perennial, 2004.

The More Love You Give

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