Valentine’s Day is upon us, and it’s a perfectly fitting time to ponder a question that has echoed through ages: What Is The Real Meaning Of Love? Dictionaries define love as an intense, deep, profound, tender affection for another person and also a strong like for something. But love, in its essence, stretches far beyond simple definitions.
Love isn’t confined to a single box; it’s a spectrum of emotions and experiences. It manifests in countless forms, from the exhilarating rush of first love to the steadfast commitment of unconditional love. We hear of intense love, true love, and eternal love. There’s even “emophilia,” describing those who fall in love quickly and frequently – those ‘fly by night’ romantics we’ve all encountered.
Ultimately, love is deeply personal and uniquely perceived by each individual. Some people may not outwardly display grand gestures of affection, avoiding overt sentimentality or effusive declarations. Yet, beneath a reserved exterior, they harbor profound unconditional love for those they cherish. Is this what we could call ‘silent love’ – a powerful affection expressed not in words, but in unwavering actions and quiet devotion?
Consider, too, ‘angry love.’ This surfaces when worry and stress for someone’s well-being, often a child, triggers an overwhelming surge of protective emotion. The fear of their pain or loss can evoke a panicked response. Once the danger passes, this ‘angry love’ might manifest as scolding, born from the relief and the intense anxiety experienced.
For me, unconditional love is at the heart of it all. To truly love someone is to prioritize them, to place their needs and well-being alongside your own. However, life teaches balance. I’ve learned that a healthy dose of self-love isn’t detrimental to loving others; in fact, it enriches our capacity to love and be loved, making us more complete individuals.
It’s easy to get swept up in the commercial tide of Valentine’s Day. Corporations urge us to express love through purchases – a special meal, a new sofa – implying that love can be bought and sold. But love shouldn’t be confined to a single day, dictated by marketing campaigns.
Real love deserves to be expressed and felt every day of the year. It’s about consistent actions, genuine care, and heartfelt connection, not a manufactured event fueled by social media trends and commercial interests.
As we navigate the yearly deluge of red hearts, sentimental poems, and advertisements for romantic gifts, let’s remember those for whom love is a complex and sometimes painful experience. There are those who have lost love, been hurt by love, are still searching for love, or simply yearn for more love in their lives.
So, before cynicism takes hold, know this: I deeply value the love I give, I am profoundly grateful for the love I receive, and yes, I am a true romantic at heart. Just ask my husband!
What does true love mean to you? Reflecting on this question, with all its nuances, is perhaps the most meaningful exploration of love itself.
Written with love, laughter, and a lifetime of experience.
Neena xxx
Founder of Therapy with Neena Rainey
