“Love begins by taking care of the closest ones – the ones at home.”
- August 26, 1910 – September 5, 1997
- Albanian
- Catholic nun and saint
- Founded the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta, India, and won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in supporting the poor, sick, and orphans
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Quote
“Love begins by taking care of the closest ones – the ones at home.”
Explanation
Mother Teresa emphasizes that true love starts in the home, with those we are closest to—our family and loved ones. She suggests that often, we look outward to serve the world, but the foundation of love begins with care, attention, and compassion toward those who are immediately around us. This closeness is where we can demonstrate the most authentic and selfless love. Taking care of those within our home, whether through acts of kindness, support, or even patience, is the first step in cultivating the love that can then be extended to the broader world.
Mother Teresa’s own life was a model of service, and she believed that serving those around us with love and attention is just as important as working with those far away. The people we share our lives with daily—family members, friends, or even neighbors—are often the ones who need our love the most. By nurturing these relationships, we create a sense of community and belonging that can then extend beyond our immediate circle.
In today’s world, this quote invites us to reflect on how we show love within our own homes. It encourages us to see that love isn’t just about grand gestures or helping those far away—it’s about small, consistent acts of care. Whether it’s listening to a partner’s worries, offering support to children or parents, or just showing patience with those closest to us, the love we cultivate at home lays the foundation for broader compassion and connection in our communities.
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