Modern love

[vaneramos]

Brenna's hands

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We describe love in many ways. The first thing that comes to mind when we hear it in a song is the most superficial kind of all: infatuation. Western society idolizes romantic love, but this thing is often characterized by jealousy, possessiveness, irrational behaviour, loss of individuality and a breakdown of personal boundaries. Many people in love believe they cannot survive without the other.

In the New Testament, three different Greek words are translated as love. Eros is erotic love. Filios is the love one holds for a friend. Agape is the unconditional love we are called to demonstrate toward all others; it was translated as charity in the King James Version.

The texts treated erotic love as sinful. But it is a natural function, and should not be denigrated. It ought to be given its place and guided by principles of self-worth and respect.

Now our songs and lifestyles exalt it. But all too often we stop looking out for one another's best interests, as in agape.

I have learned from polyamory that I don't possess my lover. Our commitment is guided by hope rather than certainty. Our relationship will last as long as it builds us both up.

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Two more photos from the beach are posted in texture:

1. Surface texture of a driftwood stump.


2. A pattern left in the sand, presumably by water dripping from melting ice.