Love

Love © CC0 Public Domain

My name, in its essence, echoes across languages, a derivative of that universal emotion: love. It's a fitting coincidence, then, that my first article delves into this profound subject. Love, an emotion as old as time, yet perpetually new, is the very fabric of my existence.

What is love? A question pondered by poets, philosophers, and everyday souls alike. For me, love is not a singular definition but a collection of experiences, lessons, and realizations woven into the tapestry of my life.

From my earliest memories, I was enveloped in love. The warm, unwavering affection of my parents, the gentle care of my relatives, and the steadfast loyalty of my friends painted my childhood with hues of joy and security. It is truly a blessing to be loved. I didn't fully grasp the depth of this blessing then, but now, I am profoundly grateful for those kind, loving hearts that shaped the person I am today.

To be clear, my life has not always been sunshine and rainbows. Like anyone else, I've navigated the inevitable ups and downs that life throws our way. I simply learned to always look at the bright side of life, to appreciate the goodness around us, and to value what we already have. This perspective didn't come easily. It was forged through a series of mistakes and a period of taking love for granted.

Then, a pivotal moment arrived. I realized how incredibly fortunate I was to have experienced such unconditional love. Did I ever reciprocate that love? The question lingered, heavy with regret. I struggled to express my affection, even to my own family. And then, I experienced the profound loss of two important family members, one after another. In their absence, I truly understood the depth of their love for me. It was too late. What could I do then?

Slowly, I began to learn the art of appreciation and expression. I learned to cherish the love that surrounded me and to communicate my gratitude. It took years to cultivate this awareness, to become a better version of myself.

Along this journey, I encountered those who viewed love with skepticism, as a weakness or a mask for ulterior motives. Ridiculous? Perhaps. But these perspectives exist. We must approach such individuals with compassion, understanding that they may have never truly experienced the transformative power of love. This is all the more reason to show them love!

What can love do? How can it reshape us? It is a force that elevates us, that fosters growth and empathy. There is no substitute for love. In this ever-changing world, love remains a constant, a steady beacon in the midst of chaos.

Legends have sung its praises, and countless souls have written about its enduring power. I am but a tiny being, sharing my humble thoughts on this universal emotion. Love is both ancient and eternally new. When you extend love without expectation, you discover a profound sense of power and peace. Love is bliss. Love is power. Love is magic. Love is everything to me. I am nothing without love. After all, my name is Love!

-P.