Lexie, his lively kitten, was chasing her tail nearby, while Zorro, the wise black cat with a distinguished air, rested beside him, keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings.
“Alex,” Lexie asked, pausing in her playful antics, “have you ever wondered what it really means to love someone without asking for anything in return?”
Alex stopped drawing and looked up at her with curiosity. “I think it’s when you do nice things for people without expecting them to do anything back. Right?”
Zorro, who had been silently observing, spoke in his calm, thoughtful tone. “It’s more than just being nice, Alex. It’s about giving love freely, without hoping for any recognition, rewards, or even reciprocation. True love is selfless and gives without limits.”
Alex frowned, trying to understand. “But if no one shows you that same love, doesn’t it hurt?”
Zorro smiled gently. “Let me show you something,” he said, beckoning them to follow him.
They wandered to the garden, where Alex’s grandmother was tending to the flowers. She was carefully watering each plant, one by one, her movements slow and deliberate.
“Look at her,” Zorro said, “She nurtures these flowers, even though they can’t thank her or love her back. She tends to them because she finds joy in their growth, not because of what she will receive in return.”
Alex watched his grandmother, and his expression softened. “So, it’s not about getting something back. It’s about caring for someone or something because it makes you happy to see them flourish?”
“Exactly,” Lexie mewed, nuzzling Alex’s hand. “True love is giving of yourself freely, just like Grandma does with the flowers. It’s not about waiting for someone to love you the same way. It’s about sharing your love, just because you have it to give.”
As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the garden, Alex’s heart felt lighter. He looked at Lexie and Zorro, his thoughts clearer than before.
“Can I learn to love like that?” he asked, his voice full of hope.
Zorro looked at him with pride. “You’re already on the right path. Every time you give love without expecting anything in return, you are practicing selfless love.”
Alex smiled, feeling a warm glow inside. He hugged Lexie and Zorro tightly, whispering, “Thank you for showing me.”
Together, they sat in the peaceful evening, their hearts bound by the quiet strength of selfless love.