Romance 101: Introduction

The first entry in a ten-part series on Romance kicks off with three provocative claims to get the wheels turning.

[GraceGoldstein]

Romance and love is an area of life that I’ve witnessed many people be skeptical of, often opting out of relationships entirely for fear of getting hurt. While relationships are by no means easy or always positive, I agree with your perspective that it is entirely possible for a relationship to continue to deepen and remain healthy for the course of a lifetime. I would also add that the idea of monogamy being unfit for humans is a large generalization. Although there are lots of people that stray outside of their committed relationships, this does not discount relationships in which people are able to control whatever impulses they may be feeling and address relationship issues that occur. An additional component that I feel is needed to sustain a healthy relationship is communication. I’ve learned from my own relationship the importance of being able to put my own thoughts and feelings aside for the time being and truly listen, as well as express myself in a clear manner rather than expecting my boyfriend to read my mind. I’ve found that talking everything out as it comes up can keep deeper arguments from brewing and resolve disputes in a calmer way.

[IsabellaYonge]

The fruition of a love story entagles various feelings, strong emotions, and immediate lust towards someone you may not even know well. It is a confusing and wonderful feeling that many are scared to lose as time passes with their significant other. “Love isn’t how you feel it’s what you do” perfectly encapsulates what any relationships motto should be. Understanding the complexities of love and expressing this through action is an act lost from social media influences. Your points are especially relevant to todays generation and the unhealthy affects from receiving constant gratification through media at any hour.

[layomate]

I really like what Madeleine L'Engle has to say in A Wind in the door "love isn't how you feel its what you do." I like this line a lot and it reminds me of another saying that goes like this, lust makes you do stupid things and love makes you do amazing things. Matthew 5: 27-28 is really insightful on being faithful in a relationship, and I have to agree with it.

[annasmith]

Love is defined as an intense feeling of deep affection. I find this definition does not do it justice, as love is a part of every aspect of life. Love helps you grow as an individual, pushes you out of your comfort zone, and makes you question everything. Madeleine L’Engle says that “love isn’t what you feel. It’s what you do.” If feelings are not put into action, then nothing will ever come from it and you can miss out on growing, experiences and people.

[austintepe]

He saw her from across the hall, a simple smile let their hearts 'blaze. Shared kisses turned to shared spaces, though missing counsel, soon encumbered daze. As love doth flutters, his heart harked for another. With shifting winds came fleeting vows, devoid of unruly smother. Her tears rolled a river, awash of her prior splendor. If only followers could offer cover, behest against the pretender. Those who seek solace in company, attend to serve the other. I say to you, nurture your lover.

[williamcross]

Extremely well said Paul. Even as I attempted to comment on this episode I was scrolling through my “subscriptions” here on YouTube and recognized how much my thoughts have wandered, in social media alone.