I learned a lot about love in 2019. Sometimes learning about something includes recognizing what it’s not.
Love is not begging for someone’s kindness. It is not disrespect. Love doesn’t require convincing someone that you are their one. It is not controlling. It doesn’t destroy. It is not a game about winning and losing. Love is not neglect. It cannot complete you. Love is not waiting for the next better thing to come along. Love is not mere passion. Love is not always romantic.
Love comes in several shapes and forms. Love is a tight hug from a friend when you’ve had a tough day. Love is respect. It is support. Love is forgiveness. Love is silence as someone really listens to you. It is saying, “I saw this and thought of you.” Love is being fully present. It is reassurance that everything will be okay in the end. It is acceptance of another person. It is acceptance of yourself. Love is inspiration. Love is always friendship.