Each year on February 14th individuals celebrate relationships. Some people call this a Hallmark Holiday. Retailers love it. Florists love it. Restaurants love it. But what is love? I’m not an expert on the definition, but I do know what love does and doesn’t look like in my office. Do these definitions of love ring true for you?
Love is…
- An emotional bond that we have with others that can be platonic or intimate. There is a deep connection and understanding.
- Respectful and kind. When in a relationship is characterized by love, it is respectful toward another person and kind.
- Having boundaries. A healthy love relationship, whether platonic or intimate, has boundaries. Boundaries are essential for everyone.
- Unconditional. When love is unconditional, there are no strings attached.
- Passionate. Romantic love includes passion and paying attention to each other in emotional and physical ways.
- Trusting one another. In a loving relationship, you trust someone until you are given a reason not to trust.
- Giving and receiving. In all loving relationships, there is a give and take between parties. It is never equal, but constantly moving back and forth.
Take a moment to think about who you love and who loves you this Valentine’s Day. You don’t need to express your love with candies or flowers; instead, tell those that you love how much you appreciate their support and how grateful you are to have them in your life. If we all regularly acknowledge those who are important to us in a meaningful way, the world would be a kinder, gentler place.
As always, if you need a psychotherapist, counsellor, or just someone to talk to about one of your love relationships please reach out to ask a question or book an appointment.
Listening. Guiding. Caring.
