SOL: Stanzas of Life

Love.

It leaves scars, often too deep to hide. Love is not a surface word used to describe current emotions or feelings. Instead, love is a binding force that intertwines the momentous journey of two or more individuals. There are three concepts that connect people together: attraction, interests, and goals. 

Attraction and shared qualities are commonly seen in relationships. Deeply rooted in the American culture is the notion of individualism. Our intrinsic values and personal sense of belonging to a group are masked by our society’s exclusive mentality. The irony of promoting inclusion through our educational curriculum and extra-curricular organizations is not portrayed in the societal realm of America.

Interests and goals we desire to obtain are essential to friendships. Through sharing similar passions and interests, we develop a deeper sense of appreciation for our involvement and passions. We [humans] are collectively driven to pursue our goals due to the motivation of our closest companions. Our future ambitions are supported through our relationships with friends and family. These central concepts connect people together.

The true meaning of love is present through trust, fostered by a bond of commitment. Relationships are intimate and play a critical role in shaping our personality.  The people who are closest to you are those who either share similar interests, differ in their personalities, or are genetically related to you.

Whether a relationship is seen as friends, a family connection, or as a partner, the underlying theme is love. I plan to focus on the aspect of relationships as seen in the sense of a boyfriend or girlfriend.

Through the sleepless nights talking on the phone or the never-ending texts throughout the day, the connection and shared interests form the backbone of a relationship.  Time seemingly moves faster while in a relationship, especially while in-person with your partner. Relationships are friendships at the core, surrounded by decisions and intimate actions that foster a partnership. 

Relationships may also be broken, shattered by insecurity and a lack of trust within someone. How can a four-letter word bring so much pain and sorrow? I often struggle to answer this question, pondering the pros and cons of love. Love is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The ride consists of a few bumps, twists, and climatical points. At times, I wonder if love could truly be a mistake? It can leave a sense of loneliness and dependence, yet love is seen as comforting and never-ending. Whereas loneliness may be temporary, love is permanent. 

Therefore, loneliness is the quest for love.

Being lonely gives you a desire to live: Love.