The Courage to Love

This quote captures a concept I've been processing for quite some time. I'm convinced it takes self confidence to love*. I've watched people withhold love, and it seems they are often afraid if they give too much away, there won't be enough left for them. Those with high self esteem openly give love, praise and encouragement. 
Love is boundless. A Russian folk tale tells of a mother who had five children. One asked her which she loved best. She took the flame from a candle to light five candles and explained that the original flame was the same size as it was at the beginning, and each of the five candles had the same size flame. None  of the candles had any less. That's how love is. It never decreases because it  is given away. It remains the same, or even greater.
If we are aware that fear  and lack of confidence are the reasons people hold back, we can be more compassionate and not take things personally. 

*Love in  this instance refers to love for humanity, not romantic love.