What is love?

on Friday, March 15, 2013

Love is a frequently used word nowadays in so many different contexts that one gets into a considerable amount of confusion, with respect to the actual meaning of the word itself. What, then, is love in its genuine, basic sense?

Love, in its true essence, is a pure phenomenon, a complex feeling that it cannot be defined in merely a few words. For a concept, it is so concrete and real, it is a wonder how all the vocabulary in the world falls short when one tries to describe love. The feeling of love is so uniquely individualistic that only the one experiencing it, can fully understand it. For those who never been in love, it might be a waste of time, or something unclear and incomprehensible; since they have never experienced the contentment of living their lives for a being other than themselves. On the contrary, those who have been fortunate enough to have had a drink from the blissful fountain of love, it is probably among the most satisfying experiences of their lives.

What is it that makes love so desirable? What is the real essence of this extremely enviable emotion which makes, as well as destroys, the lives of hundreds? Love is unmistakable, and yet so vague. It is genuine, and yet seems more like a fantasy. It is perhaps the most pleasurable emotion in the world, and yet the most painful too. Love is wonderful. Love is frightening. It makes you smile without a reason, and it gives you teary nights. Love, in its core, is extremely intricate. Love makes you, and it breaks you. It is among your biggest strengths as well as your major weaknesses. It satisfies, and yet leaves you longing for more. Love is innocent and never ending. Evident from even the smallest aspect of nature, love is as eternal and absolute as the nature itself.

All the previously mentioned characteristics, can be associated with love. However, these are specific to an individual only and would not help one recognize love when he sees, rather than experience, it. What, then, are the relatively more ‘humanistic’ characteristics which can help define love? Probably the first and the most important of these is sacrifice. Yes, love is sacrifice. Sacrificing your interests, goals and belongings for the beloved largely determines the extent of love. Bearing pain for the beloved’s sake, keeping his happiness over your own, all are examples of sacrifices love requires. No one can claim to have been in love unless he has sacrificed to some extent. It is this selfless consideration for others’ interests above your own which contributes largely towards the pleasure and satisfaction associated with love. Second, love is compromise. Being in love means not to let petty arguments destroy the relationship and to reach a mutual agreement considering both partner’s well-being. Lastly, love is long lasting support. Being with your beloved through thick and thin, whenever he needs you, despite the rough circumstances exhibits your love for him like nothing else.

Love is not a simple emotion. It is a mixture of feelings and actions that are hard to explain but constitutes an extremely pleasurable experience which, despite some hurtful moments, makes your life worth living.



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