Love is a powerful feeling that comes in many forms. From the bond with family to the camaraderie of friends to the butterflies of romantic feelings, it enriches our lives and provides support during tough times. Yet love can also be complicated and challenging to define.
Whether you are single or in a committed relationship, this Valentine’s Day celebrate the people who love you and show it by saying “I love you” in your own way. This might be by buying them a special dinner or taking them on a romantic getaway or just by sending them a text with a heart icon. The important thing is that you say it and mean it.
It’s not uncommon to have days, or even weeks, when you aren’t all mushy-gushy in love with someone. And that’s okay! But, if you stick with it, chances are good that you will have many more moments when you look at your loved one and a giant wave of love will inundate you. It might not feel as strong as the first time, but it will still be there.
The emotion of love — or agape, phobos, or eros — is a primary human drive that makes us want to do things for other people, whether it’s saving a life at risk, helping out a neighbor in need, or just encouraging them to take another try at the marathon. In fact, the research into this is so well established that some scientists argue that it’s not even an emotion, but a fundamental biological drive.
Different religions have their own definitions of love, including the Christian idea that it’s a desire to see others succeed and to be good to them. The Hindu concept is bhakti, which includes devotion to the divine as well as compassion and mercy toward other humans. In the Buddhist tradition, it’s called bodhichitta, which is enlightened or divine love that brings about peace and a sense of connectedness with all of humanity.
In the modern world, many psychologists like Barbara Fredrickson togel hongkong have emphasized that love defies rigid categorization and flourishes in myriad ways. This may be because, unlike most other emotions, it can be expressed as a complex blend of primary and secondary emotions that are influenced by our cultural expectations.
But, while there are a lot of ways to express your love for a person, there’s only one way to know for sure that you truly love them back. That’s to do it — and then to keep on doing it. There will be mistakes, but apologizing and being willing to work on your relationship is part of what loving someone really means. So, this Valentine’s Day and throughout the year, remember to say it, show it, and keep on doing it. It might not be easy, but it’s definitely worth it.
