Oh yeah, perceived love is the glue in both statism & religion. They’re like love-extension technologies, in theory
Discussion
Maybe start by loving yourself that way. This doesn’t have to include any relationship with any god nor religion.
Then you can get there with others.
For me: it doesn’t mean I like everyone. Anyone who reads my posts will realize there are many things I don’t like about humanity.
Loving humanity unconditionally is another matter.