I think about this topic a lot, not because I am a romantic but because I find it interesting how different people perceive the concept of love. Some people reserve it for family only, or significant others only, some for everyone, some for their friends, etc. Their definition of love can be extremely different than another person as well, some people even claim to feel love for nothing. Some people believe they can love their pets (I know I do) and other people say you can only love another person.
What's your definition of love? How do you know when you love someone? Is love just chemicals and hormones? Or is it a conscious decision? .. or a mix?
I personally see love as a good mix of hormones and a decision when it's between you and your significant other. I don't usually tell friends that I love them, and I occasionally tell family that I do. I definitely love and care for my family and pets, but I only really actively tell my significant other.
Occasionally I feel that people give up on their "love" too often. It's no secret that divorce rates are much higher than several years ago, and actually I think there are more people living single than married now (the first that's happened in recent history). For example, I think it's important to accept one's flaws, and when the "chemicals" and hormones run out for a bit you need to be able to say to yourself "this is what I love and respect about my partner, and these are the things I am willing to accept in hopes they too will accept my flaws". I'm not a relationship expert by any means, but I do know it's not a walk in a park and sometimes you have to put in a lot of effort! For the days where it's effortless though, to me, it's well worth it.
So what are your thoughts on the definition of love? What is it to you? Do you say it willingly to others? Or is it reserved for a certain person?
Bookmarks