L'essentiel [English translation]

The main thing is to be loved

Everything else doesn't really make a difference by comparison

Being loved is the only truth that matters to anyone

And whatever happens, remember to keep that truth within

and never let it go

Being loved is about getting back as much as we give out

Never questioning whether we belong, or needing any reassurance

It's how we melt when we feel each others' warmth

It's about earning trust, and about personal growth

The main thing is to be loved

Above anything else you could possibly think of

Fame and fortune don't matter at all

They blow away with the wind

It's the little efforts we make that really count

Such as being expected somewhere and running all the way there as not to be late

The little gifts are what make life worth living

Like when someone says our name in such a way that sounds genuine and kind

What's important are the day-to-day experiences

It's how our hearts leap when a happy child rushes to greet us

When we have arms around us, how could we ask for any more?

Whatever happens, love is the only truth that we can rely on

If we were ever exiled to foreign land, what if we had no one in our heart to keep us company?

What is there that is so strong and inspiring it could survive beyond death?

Only love, as it lasts forever and always

My love . . .

• Artist:Ginette Reno