when we tell the truth about ourselves, especially about our mistakes and flaws—can we feel unconditionally accepted and loved. The effect of Real Love is miraculous, even when we feel accepted and loved for only short periods of time: We lose our emptiness and fear, and when that happens, we gradually lose our need for those self-destructive Getting and Protecting Behaviors. Once we’ve tasted the Real thing, Imitation Love no longer has the same power to seduce and distract us, and we’re finally able to share the love we have with others and participate in loving relationships.
