Love is such a complex thing that is often taken quite lightly when it should be treated in the contrast; it has so much power and opportunity that people often take for granted when instead should be held delicately. There is a line from a song "Sigh No More" by the band Mumford and Sons that reads, "love that will not betray you, dismay or enslave you, it will set you free." These lyrics are often overlooked in the song because they are sang so lightly but with such beauty. It is so important to not only focus on the chorus of songs, but the lyrics that are the support for the message of a song. This song relates to life and the relationships it holds in any sense of the word; they can be romantic, professional, friendship, or family. Seeing love as something frivolous is common amongst modern society members, which is quite tragic. We also tend to focus on all the negative connotations of relationships, which we incorrectly think override the power of love. As the lyrics say, love is meant to free you from your worries and everything that holds you back; love is not something that is meant to hold you down or stop you from pursuing your intentions in life. If anything, it should help you reach goals, if you have the support of people who cherish you and push you to be your best. When love is practiced properly, it will never "betray you" or lead you down the wrong route when you are in a healthy relationship. Love should get you through any difficult situation you are enduring and be your ladder when you are climbing a wall of discouragement.
It is common for people to say to one another, "I know I do not say it enough, but I really do love and appreciate you." This phrase is quite sorrowful rather than inspirational because in one moment, the person being addressed feels acknowledged and loved, but the rest of the time, they may feel forgotten. We need to stop taking people's love and care for granted because there will come a point when they will give up. Those who are trying to be the best relationship partner they can be should never feel foolish at the end of the day because they feel unappreciated by people they care deeply about. As someone who needs to work on this, I know it is easy to forget to show appreciation for even the most meager gestures someone can make for you, but it is in our duty as humans to express gratitude. We are not primal creatures, we are not animals, and we do not lack the ability to endorse satisfaction, so we need to stop acting as such.
It is never too late to change your ways and show love toward people you genuinely adore. Choose what you care deeply about and do not spread yourself thin; love wholeheartedly rather than impassively. I'm not saying that you should not express sympathy for strangers, but there is a difference between being nice and devoted. Give all your love to people who deserve and worship your affection, but still be kind to others. Allow devotion from your relationships fuel your inner fire to be the best you can be for not only them, but for yourself. Allow something as beautiful as love to take over your life in a positive manner and allow unprecedented change. Allow yourself to experience all that comes with love, the good and the bad, because everything is a learning experience and when treated correctly, can shape you into your best form.
