Those We Love

We all know about the romantic love that a couple can share. They meet, fall into a deep, lasting love, and strive to spend the rest of their lives together. This is what people think of when they think of 'love'. While this may be the classic definition, there is a lot of love in our lives that does not fall under this category. Be sure to appreciate everyone and everything that you love in your life, not just your mate.

Most of us have memories of visiting our grandparents. We were young and impressionable. Our grandpas and grandmas would care for us in deep ways. They would hold us in their arms as they told stories of their past. Although we could love them in form only a short while, our love never faded for them even after they are long gone.

The very definition of unconditional love is shown through the connection of a parent and a child. Our moms and dads raised us from birth. They were there for us when we first scraped our knees, Band-Aids and Bactine in hand. They comforted us when we had our first broken heart. Parents will always be there to love us.

The love we had for our parents can then be showered onto us as we grow older and have children. We watch them grow from little, delicate infants to the strong, independent adults they so long to become. Our love for them never wavers. It is just as strong from birth as it is until we die.

While not people, we often think of our fluffy kitties or strong, loyal puppies as part of the family. Their unconditional love for us only fuels our love for them. Our pet's companionship can lift us from the dreariest moods, making them an invaluable part of our lives.

Not all of our love is reserved for living creatures. A fulfilling life has plenty of loving traits. We may love the way the sky turns shades of orange, red and pink in the morning light of a perfect sunrise, or the sound of steady rain pounding on a bedroom window pane. We may also love the view of a twilit meadow, fireflies glinting in the distance. These loves may not be as intense or observable as our love for the people around us, but it is just as important.

Never forget to show your love not only to your romantic partner, but also to everything that holds a piece of your heart. Let your parents and grandparents know how much you appreciate everything that they have done for you. Give your children and pets a time that they will never forget. Go out and view that sunrise, or listen to the rain. Never forget all that you love. A life is much better lived when you surround yourself with everything that grabs the love of your heart.