August 20.  Although the discussions in the group were life-centred and not intended to be only religious, the topic of religion did often come in to them.  Many biblical sayings have been proverbs or norms in society.  The commandment  “Love your neighbour as you love yourself” and its two parts is quoted often today.  There seems to be great emphasis on self-esteem and one’s own healthy self-image.  At the same time balance in a couple relationship is also very necessary.   Maysie said she didn’t want to be anyone’s doormat and that had happened to her frequently in the past. Joel stated,  “I think women are getting to be too overbearing nowadays. We men just can’t handle that.” Portia added, “We really need to teach our kids constantly to keep the balance.”

 You shall love your neighbour as yourself.  Matt 22:39.  Pope Francis:   The ideal of marriage cannot be seen purely as generous donation and self-sacrifice, where each spouse renounces all personal needs and seeks only the other’s good without concern for personal satisfaction.  We need to remember that authentic love also needs to be able to receive the other, to accept one’s own vulnerability and needs and to welcome with sincere and joyful gratitude the physical expression of love. AL157.  Today there is tendency to claim ever broader individual rights.  Underlying this is a conception of the human person as detached from all social contexts increasingly unconcerned with others.   FT 111.