The Need for Love and Attention

The Need for Love and Attention

By Inspirational Diva Allison Bell

Recently, I went to my nephew’s 1st grade class to volunteer to be a helper for the day. The children were instantly intrigued by who I was. Are you his mommy? Are you married? Are you in school? Is that your real hair? - All innocent questions from his friends. After we got many questions out of the way, the children started getting increasingly affectionate. Can I have a hug? Can I sit in your lap? Will you read this story to me? Can I sit next to you? I had turned into the substitute mommy for the afternoon.

As the day continued, I noticed an ever increasing correlation between these 7 year olds and young women. My nephew’s classmates missed the comfort and protection mom and dad offer at home and looked to me – a complete stranger - to fill the void of love and attention. Sound familiar ladies?

In March I went to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico with my college roommate and best friend during the peak of spring break. I noticed the same characteristics from the 7 year olds as the young women at night clubs. Girls half dressed dancing on top of bars were trying to win affection of complete strangers for love and attention. As I sat there – watching and observing (I wanted to be clear.)– I couldn’t help but believe these girls were taking every desperate measure to gain reassurance that they are special. At least the 7 year olds are honest – Will you make me feel special? Will you make me feel loved? Will you act like you need me?

We all want to ask those questions to someone with whom we share a relationship, if only our youthful innocence allowed us to be obvious and open with our weakness of needing love all the time. It’s only when we are older when we allow sex, skimpy outfits, and attention overshadow what we need in the first place – a little love and affection.

Love and affection is what we all strive for in life. If you are a young adult, try to find a rewarding relationship where you can you gain these values. Chances are you won’t find Mr. Wonderful on top of a bar. Mr. Wonderful will find the young lady who is a confident, self assured, loving, classy gal on the dance floor dancing in a way that wouldn’t embarrass her mother.

If you are a parent, make a point to tell your children over and over they are special. Send them cards, write more I love you emails, send more care packages – no matter what their age. These young girls in Mexico that looked like they stepped out of a rap video were screaming for attention regardless whether it came from mom and dad or a stranger. Constant love from your parents teaches you to love yourself. As a parent, please make sure you are discussing with your sons and daughters that the media has distorted the image of young women.

Help me restore self respect in young women. To re-establish self respect in a woman is the golden ticket for a confident, successful, and purposeful life. Self respect can be gained by introducing women to service opportunities. Every woman has a nurturing quality and getting involved in the community will validate her purpose. Volunteering for those who are less fortunate can be a tremendous confidence booster. You will gain appreciation, love and affection from those whom you serve.

So there it is. An extra hug, a long talk and serving can go a long way to renew our innocence – our need for love and attention. The fact is, every living being whether it’s your great grandmother or your golden retriever needs their “well” filled with love and appreciation everyday. Always remember to Embrace Today, for we are never guaranteed tomorrow.
For more information on Inspirational Diva Allison Bell or Embrace Today Concepts, please visit www.EmbraceTodayConcepts.com or www.InspirationalDiva.com . 2006 Copyright© Embrace Today Concepts, Inc