Quote Originally Posted by Id3aLiStiC
I thought the sand was already protecting Gaara which is why his mother's attempt to kill Gaara failed...

That was his mother right? If not, I need to rewatch... Been too long.
That was hic uncle Yashamaru.

Episode 76, around 11:50
Quoting Yashamaru:

The Shukaku of the Sand is a living soul that is usually used for combat purposes.
The sand automatically protects you because of love.
I believe the will of your mother is inside the sand.
My sister probably wanted to protect you, even after her death.

Next episode around 6:40

My sister did not wish for your birth.
She became this village sacrifice, and she died cursing this village.

About the love symbol on his head, his mother gave him the name Gaara. An Asura that loves himself (Asura: an enemy of the gods in Hindu mythology, a demon) Love only yourself. And fight only for yourself. He is not loved, even by his mother...

Hmm, so the love part of his mother isn't true
Well, then I'm out. Not gonna look for more. At least it kinda refreshed it.