I started searching to see what people consider 'love'. I found 5 fancy definitions:
1) The physicist: 'Love is chemistry' - Biologically, love is a powerful neurological condition like hunger or thirst, only more permanent.
2) The psychotherapist: 'Love has many guises' - Unlike us, the ancients did not lump all the various emotions that we label "love" under the one word. They had several variations, including: a non-sexual intimacy between close friends and family members. Flirting. Mature love between couples over a long period of time. Agape. Self love. Lastly, eros is about sexual passion and desire.
3) The philosopher: 'Love is a passionate commitment'.
4) The romantic novelist: 'Love drives all great stories' - Love is the driver for all great stories, not just romantic love, but the love of parent for child, for family, for country.
5) The nun: 'Love is free yet binds us' - love is life's greatest blessing.
Several of my friends here have said during this week, that their husbands are not romantic as far as sending flowers, bringing candy, etc. I will truthfully say Jim is not, nor has he ever been one to do things like that. During the many years, we have discussed 'love'. He says one should 'show' their love and if they do that, there is no need for flowers, etc. once a year. It should be shown 365 days a year. I believe women are more sentimental, more lovey-dovey, as a general rule, than men are. Do you agree?
I know I am loved by God, my family, and friends. We will not go out to dinner or give each other cards, but be in our warm home, with a good bed to sleep in, food to eat. We have no worries. Jim bought a cemetery years and years ago, before me, and so we even have a place to be buried! God has been so good to let Jim live 82 years and me 72 years, so far. I try to love unconditionally to everyone, as I have not walked in their shoes.
Truthfully, what is love to you, in your home?
I tend to agree with you..although, it would be nice to get a little something on Valentines Day. Love to me is mutual respect, unconditional love, etc..I could go on and on.. I am forever grateful that I have a roof over my head, food etc..Blessings
ReplyDeleteI think love is a personal journey, actually. Each of us "love" in our own ways, intensities, in our own time and need certain amounts in return to "feel" loved. I'm not especially romantic. Personal experience has led me to think it can lead to problems. You know, seeking that "perfect" romantic love because life isn't like that. It's dealing with financial difficulties, sick babies or spouses, cars that won't start, dangerous situations, etc. When we care about someone, we're kind, respectful and watchful of their needs. That to me is love.
ReplyDeleteAnd the only love that is truly perfect is the forever love of God through Jesus Christ His son: "4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away." [1 Corinthians 13:4-8 NIV]
But I know y'all know that.
Excellent post. I loved it. ~:)
I think you're right about men vs women. I like the romantic things and Bob would agree with Jim. I do think that the way we treat each other every day through the year is the most telling evidence of love.
ReplyDeleteHi Linda, Like you two, we no longer give presents or cards. We are thankful for everyday blessings and especially for power during this snow storm!!! Whatever you do on Valentine's Day, I hope it is a lovely day. Your blog friendship is a blessing!
ReplyDeleteI'm one of those who said there is no romantic Valentine's Day at our house. Neither on of us is very romantic. I think married love has to have a firm foundation of trust and respect. A marriage grows from that. Being friends first, is a good way to start, too. Understanding each other and good communication are also a must. Love isn't easy, and it won't flourish if it is one-sided. You both have to work at it.
ReplyDeleteSending the love of a good friend to you on this day before Valentine's Day!! May friendship wrap you in a blanket of warmth!!
We aren't doing the trappings of Valentine's Day either. I told Bill I would rather save the money for a trip out of town some other weekend. Love for me is when you treat others with courtesy and respect and sincerity (in addition to the affection whether for spouses, children, or friends).
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful post! Love to me is something that is deep in your soul, there really isn't any words to describe it. It is something that is felt and I believe for it to be true love it has to be unconditional. I don't see anything wrong with couples who want to buy each other gifts on Valentine's Day but it is something that we don't do. Just spending time with each other is the best gift I could get.
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ReplyDeleteI do hope that you have a beautiful Valentine's Day, Linda.
Sending you hugs,
Jackie