They do not love that do not show their love
William Shakespeare
Shakespeare is indeed a legend in the literary world. The English poet and play write penned poetry, sonnets, and plays that are treasured even today, centuries later. Romeo and Juliet were a cast of his creation, and the players in a perfect romance. But what did this poet perceive about love? His words imply that love may be an action, rather than a feeling. This philosophy, however, is sadly foreign to most folks today.
The treacherous truth in numbers indicates that (according to Jennifer Baker of the Forest Institute of Professional Psychology), 50% of first marriages, 67% of second marriages, and 74% of third marriages end in divorce. Another study suggests that of the top 15 reasons for divorce men and women alike stated "we grew apart." Words like "unfulfilled," and "unsatisfied" were spoken.
These reasons are commonly accepted by Americans. Most understand the desire to be desired, and when passion is not present, love gets lost. When a couple saunters through the seasons of a relationship there are times that tug at the cords of commitment. There are days when money may be sparse, and life a struggle. These times are those that define the level of love the spouses share -- whether shallow or deep-seated.
Shallow Love
Shallow love is a superficial form of affection that abides in emotions.This love is dictated by feelings, swayed by circumstances, and broken by conflict. This is the pretentious love that pursues the pretty girl next door, and excuses a spouse's wayward actions. This is the love that goes with the flow, and often "feels" right. But beware -- shallow love shifts when the storms of life sweep in.
True Love
True love is the seed of something spiritual, something selfless. It is the nature and essence of God, and therefore is not automatic to man. This love is denoted from the Greek word "agape."
This is the love that gives when it hurts, and perseveres when the passion has paled. Examine the words of the most cited scriptures of the bible pertaining to love:
"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged... Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance."
True love is a rare and precious promise that is never broken, through sickness and in health, and until death.
