While a heart connection lets us appreciate those we love just as they are, a soul connection opens up a further dimension—seeing and loving them for who they could be, and for who we could become under their influence. This means recognizing that we both have an important part to play in helping each other become more fully who we are.

John Welwood, PhD, (1943–2019) was an American clinical psychologist, psychotherapist, teacher, editor, and author often noted for his introduction of the concept of “spiritual bypassing,” or using spiritual practices to sidestep dealing with unresolved emotional issues. He was known for integrating psychological and spiritual concepts and showing effects of meditation on the nature of the mind.