What is Love?

Love is a complex and multifaceted emotion that has been the subject of contemplation, exploration, and artistic expression throughout human history. It is a deep affection and attachment that transcends mere attraction or infatuation. Love encompasses a wide range of emotions, including care, compassion, empathy, and a profound sense of connection with another person or even with humanity as a whole.

At its core, love is a powerful force that drives individuals to seek emotional and physical intimacy, to form deep bonds, and to prioritize the well-being and happiness of others. It is often associated with feelings of warmth, joy, and fulfillment. Love can manifest in various forms, such as romantic love, familial love, platonic love, or even love for humanity, nature, or a higher power.

Romantic love, often portrayed in literature, music, and art, is characterized by intense passion, desire, and a deep emotional bond between two individuals. It involves a strong attraction, both physical and emotional, and a desire for companionship, intimacy, and shared experiences. Romantic love can bring immense joy and fulfillment, but it can also be accompanied by vulnerability, heartache, and challenges.

Familial love is the deep bond that exists between family members. It is often characterized by unconditional care, support, and a sense of belonging. Familial love can be found in the relationships between parents and children, siblings, and extended family members. It provides a sense of security, nurturance, and a foundation for personal growth and development.

Platonic love refers to deep, non-sexual affection and friendship between individuals. It is characterized by a strong emotional connection, mutual respect, and a genuine concern for each other’s well-being. Platonic love can be found in friendships, mentorships, and other non-romantic relationships. It offers companionship, emotional support, and a sense of belonging.

Love for humanity, nature, or a higher power transcends individual relationships and encompasses a broader sense of compassion, empathy, and interconnectedness. It involves a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of the world and a desire to contribute to the well-being of others. This form of love often motivates individuals to engage in acts of kindness, altruism, and social justice.

Love is not without its challenges and complexities. It can be accompanied by feelings of vulnerability, fear of rejection, and the potential for heartbreak. Love requires effort, understanding, and compromise to navigate differences, conflicts, and the inevitable ups and downs of relationships. I belive the rewards of love, such as connection and emotional fulfillment, personal growth, and a sense of purpose outweigh the challenges.

It can be difficult to define or quantify, as it encompasses a wide range of emotions, experiences, and expressions. Love is a fundamental aspect of the human experience, shaping our relationships, our sense of self, and our connection to the world around us. It is a powerful force that has the capacity to bring joy, healing, and transformation to individuals and communities alike.

I think maybe love is a word that can’t be defined exactly, but it is a human emotion that we know it when we see it. We want more of it. So many people are afraid to open up, because in the past they opened up and the person hurt them, leaving them wounded. I think of love as a verb. Love is something I do. Love is my choice of giving to another. It’s not a feeling I’m in search of. In the past I struggled with feeling lonely. That puts our focus on our lack of love and connection. When I changed my focus to feeling full of love, then I saw my life change. I was believing that God could fill me with love, and I felt that love going out of me. My focus was on thanking God for an inexhaustible source of love. I had everything I needed. It was after that belief shift that I met Merrilynn. In the last seven years with Merrilynn, when I have felt lonely when she is away, I remind myself of these thoughts. I believe I can choose to fall back into my old pattern, or instead believe and practice gratitude for my connection to God, and the universe, and my close friends. I focus on changing my inner world first, then the outer world changes around me.