I may be able to speak the languages of men and even of angels, but if I have no love, my speech is no more than a noisy gong or a clanging bell. I may have the gift of inspired preaching. I may have all knowledge and understand all secrets, I may have all the faith needed to move mountains-but if I have no love, I am nothing. I may give up everything I have and even give up my body to be burnt-but if I have no love, this does me no good.
Love is patient and kind; it is not jealous or conceited or proud; love is not ill mannered or selfish or irritable, love does not keep a record of wrongs, love is not happy with evil, but is happy with the truth. Love never gives up, and its faith, hope, and patience never fail. Love is eternal. (ICor 13-1-7)