Using as his basis the magnificent words of I Corinthians 13, author Smedes here explores how ideal love — selfless love — can take root in the crevices of a real and selfish world. Says Smedes: I want to see in a realistic way how the power of love can reshape our lives. I am not working out a “love ethic”; I do not lay down the duties of love. I assume that love is a power, and that it enables us before it obligates us. But ideal love does not work in an ideal world. It works within the limits of our ordinary lives….My object is to see how it works and what happens when it does. Frankly realistic and thoughtfully inspiring, Smedes' exploration will enable all readers to better realize both the hardships and joys of selfless love.