“The hierarchy of closeness, intimacy, and love brings with it a corresponding level of difficulty.   One’s love for a tree or rock has no strings attached and thus, flows most easily.  Love for a stranger is next, and is also not too difficult as there are no real complications.  Then love for a friend or family member – which is difficult in how much of our identity is wrapped up in it.  After, love for a partner.  This is intense love and brings intense attachment, heartbreak, judgement, etc.  Lastly, love for ourselves.  By far the highest level, but we do not realize it because there are so many complications.  Overall, the closer we feel to something, the more suffering, difficulty, and all around work we must do.”