All You Need Is Love

Love took center stage on June 25, 1967 when The Beatles performed "All You Need Is Love" during the world's first global satellite broadcast called "Our World.” The broadcast reached an estimated 400 million viewers across 25 countries. This wasn't just another Beatles hit, it was a deliberate message of unity during the “summer of love”, delivered through a medium that connected humanity in an unprecedented way.

On the heels of the popularity and critical acclaim of Sgt. Pepper, the BBC approached the Beatles to represent Britain in this historic broadcast. They requested something that could be understood regardless of language barriers. John responded with a universal message of love that transcended cultural differences.

Various musical traditions are represented in the song, thanks to producer George Martin. He incorporated snippets of several songs, including the French national anthem, Bach’s “Invention No. 8 in F major”, and Glen Miller’s “In The Mood”. 

Especially in today's political and social environment, we need to remember John’s simple, yet universal message. It may not be literally true that all we need is love, but it’s a great start.  

Today, I will allow love to shine in my interactions with others, not based on how I am being treated, but because it is how I choose to treat others.

Is there someone in your life who is difficult to love? What simple gesture might show them compassion?