Love can be described in a lot of ways, but it is important to recognize that love involves choice – choosing to love someone and to offer an unconditional commitment. Love recognizes that everyone is imperfect but chooses to see the best in other people and experiences.
While falling in love is euphoric and delightful, staying in love is a deliberate choice — a thoughtful plan to love each other for better and worse, for richer and poorer, in sickness and in health.
We make the choice to stay, to listen, to care. Every relationship will encounter difficulties and challenges and real love is about the full commitment to work together to stay close and connected. Not every day will be sunshine and roses, but love endures through the stormy and sad moments as well – it is a choice to do so.
Love goes well beyond infatuation. While love includes excitement, affection and fun, it is also about giving, supporting and caring for someone else day in and day out, season after season and year after year.
Love is about loyalty, acceptance, compassion and choosing to focus on the best. Real love is also about being generous and being willing to be open and vulnerable.
True love is a choice that can make life more meaningful and relationships more wonderful than ever.
Estee Goren, M.A., is a Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT 50146) working with teens, adults and couples. She is specializing in relationship, life transitions, illnesses, grief, and personal growth. Her goal is to help others gain a new perspective, overcome personal challenges, improve their overall wellbeing, and pursue personal developmen
