Love, what does that word mean to you ?

Having read the book "8 RULES OF LOVE" by Jay Shetty, I found myself engaged in numerous thought-provoking conversations about the essence of love. I enthusiastically recommended the book to anyone who would listen because of the profound impact it had on me. One particular question that stood out during these discussions was when my sister asked where I first encountered my idea of love.

The answer to that question was surprisingly simple – my initial concept of love originated from television. Unfortunately, like many others, I was exposed to unrealistic portrayals of love in telenovelas , soap operas and other romantic comedies. These media representations created an idealized version of love that didn't align with the complexities of real-life relationships.

Love, in reality, is about patience, understanding, and accepting a person for who they truly are. It involves considering their individuality and supporting their growth, rather than attempting to change them to fit an unrealistic mold. Love cannot be confined to a generic definition or a checklist; it manifests uniquely in each person's life, as we all have different needs, desires, and experiences.

Importantly, love begins from within each individual. It requires self-awareness, self-love, and a genuine understanding of one's own values and desires. By nurturing ourselves, we become better equipped to engage in meaningful and fulfilling relationships with others.

I've come to realize that genuine love goes beyond the superficial representations we see in the media. It is a profound journey of growth, connection, and understanding. By letting go of preconceived notions and embracing the complexities of love, we can experience its true beauty in our lives.