Love is of the Essence

Through my work as founding chair of the board of The Institute for Love and Time, I came to learn of a legal article that can be adopted by any organization to illuminate the legal framework of the organization with love. This article is a variation of another well-known legal article called “Time is of the essence.” The assumption here is that if we can prioritize time and embed it into legal frameworks, then why not love?

Jack Ma, the founder of Ali Baba, the largest e-retailer in the world, has been a champion of the idea that the “Love Quotient” is essential to business. Bringing love into our business and legal frameworks is not fringe but rather cutting edge.

To the full extent permitted by law, we declare that Love is of the essence of the Corporation.

“Love” is a state of being without fear.

“The law of love is the ultimate law because it is the negation of law; it is absolute because it concerns everything concrete.

The paradox of final revelation, overcoming the conflict between absolutism and relativism, is love.”

– Paul Tillich

Bylaws are an organization’s operating manual and are the main governing document for the organization. Because the heart of any great organization is literally built upon love, the board members may feel it is important to explicitly state that all policies of the organization are guided by the understanding that “Love is the ultimate reality and it is not a mere sentiment”.

Love is the ultimate truth that beats at the center of a great organization.

Consider evaluating organizational policies and actions to be sure they are in alignment (not in conflict) with our highest purpose: to develop and cultivate a deeper understanding of love in this world over time.

For this reason, embody the “LOVE OF THE ESSENCE” clause in the organization’s Bylaws.

To provide clarity, by “love,” we are referring to the state of being without fear and pursuing what one believes is in the greatest good for oneself and others, within the constraints of each person’s humanity and wellbeing. We do not refer to romantic or sexual love here – we speak of the greater love that binds together all of humanity.

Consider formulating all policies in the light of love!