What is Love?

Love is a fascinating subject. Singers sing about it. Lovers cry about it. And writers, like me, attempt to write about it. But what is love to you?

I am sure if I asked people what love is, I would get many different answers. Here are my answers to the question.

For me, love is a principle. Something you act on even if you do not feel like it. I have a 13 month old son. Sometimes, he wakes up screaming when he wants or needs something. When it is in the middle of the night, and I am catching my ZZZZZs, I do not feel like getting up to check on him. But I do it, because I love him.

Love is forgiving. I recently hit my husband's car when I was backing up out of the driveway. When I told him about it, I expected him to get upset. Instead, he said, "It's OK, that's just cosmetic." Love forgets and does not keep a record of wrong.

Love is communicating. Communication is vital for a relationship to survive. When you feel happy, you can say so. When you are sad, say so. When you are mad, (yes), say so. It is not mentally and physically healthy to bottle things up. And if you are going to criticize do so without too much emotion. Talk about what needs to be done and say something good at the same time. Love gives the chance for all members of the party to talk. Communicating is not only talking but listening as well. Try to listen with an open mind.

Love agrees to disagree. When you disagree, do not try to convince the other person to think like you. Give the other person freedom to be themselves. Give up your right to be right. Life would be boring if everyone thought like you.

Love does not put down. Love does not emotionally abuse and say things that may hurt the other person. Just because you love them and they love you, does not mean you can say whatever you like. Teasing is OK but if it hurts the other person, stop.

Love says sorry. When you hurt someone, tell them you are sorry. I know, I know, they already know you are sorry....but, it does not hurt for them to hear it.

Love is unconditional. Love is accepting the other person for who he or she is. And nobody is perfect. So, what is the point of making the other person perfect?

Well, I am no expert on love. And everyone perceives love differently. So, my question to you is: what is love to you?