Does Love Exist?

This is something I have been pondering particularly over the last couple of moths, but certainly for at least a year.

Of course I mean the concept of being “in love,” not the attachment for friends and family, the bond and love for their individuality and sheer being.

Is being “in love” something unique or just the right combination of lust, friendship, thinking a personality is beautiful and enjoying the time spent with them?
Are these two descriptions one and the same?

I know that in the past I’ve believed I was in love, I’ve had butterflies in my stomach just thinking of someone, but these feelings would fade over time (be it months or years) and I haven’t had butterflies for about four. Still though, this doesn’t negate the fact that those feelings actually existed. I certainly would have gone to the ends of the world for these people, but would I not do the same for those I feel the “other” kind of love?

I always consider that I am desensitized to these emotions, much like other things, and I have reasons to think this true.

If you say “I don’t believe in love” to the wrong people the will take in unkindly. “But I AM in love!” their minds will moan and they’ll make it their mission to convince you with their experiences of pain and sacrifice or unequivocal joy.
Could they be trying to justify their lust, or are they merely hurt at the thought that someone could think that all their strong emotions tied to a person are nothing but that, strong emotions.

I certainly don’t believe in the concept that there is a special person destined for everyone and love is forever, otherwise we’d all be in perfect relationships.
A married friend recently told me she thinks when you love someone it’s only in the beginning, the you just become accustomed to being with them. My hope is that one day I meet someone magical, and after the spark runs out she will be like my best friend with benefits, perhaps my wife and even the mother of my kids.
In fact, further down the line I would actually consider marrying some of my friends... watch out.

“If love is only a feeling, why are you crying then?” – Justin Hawkins


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Also see: Love Is Selfish