Real Love and How to Find It

Bryn Dotson, staff writer

“That’s life: starting over, one breath at a time,” said Sharon Salzberg, author of Real Love and guest speaker at the Virginia Festival of the Book. People of all walks of life gathered in their wool scarves and heavy winter coats on March 21 to hear Salzberg discuss her book and provide guidance in the quest to establish wholesome relationships.

The roads were vacant, save for a few patrolling snow plows. Traffic was light and easy to navigate. The event began at 6 p.m. and was hosted by the Virginia Festival of the Book. Due to the small size of the parking lot and the high demand of parking spots, finding a spot to park was not easy. Many people had to park in the church’s neighboring parking lots, which also quickly reached full capacity.

Once everyone had parked and shuffled into the building, they were greeted by friendly staff members of the festival. Before entering the large, open room that Salzberg would be speaking in, the crowd was handed small note cards and pens to write thoughts, ideas, and questions on.

There was animated chatter in the grand room. Many people  brought a copy of the book Salzberg would be discussing, Real Love.

The crowd grew silent as the lights dimmed. The stage was lit  with spotlights. As Salzberg made her way to the stage, the quiet room erupted with claps, whistles, and hoots. Salzberg had a large, genuine smile on her face as she sat in her chair and faced the eager audience.

The room became quiet once more as Salzberg immediately opened with meditation.

After the meditation, she thanked the audience for the warm welcome and jumped right into answering questions from a member of the festival that was on stage with her.

Salzberg explored many topics about love and the mindfulness that goes into building relationships. She discussed the concept of self-love and the importance of taking time for oneself in order to better one’s relationships.

“If we really and truly loved ourselves, we wouldn’t harm others. That is a truly revolutionary mode of self-care,” Salzberg explained.

She concluded the event with another meditation and sent the audience off with well wishes. She opened a table to greet people at and sign their copies of the book.

Salzberg radiated kindness and gave personalized messages with her signature.