Our society and the media have given us a false portrayal of love. Scripture gives us a valid portrayal. As you continue to consider the love that is necessary for a marriage, reflect on these thoughts given by people who were asked to give their definition of a loving relationship:
“A loving relationship is a choice partnership. Loving someone in which even imperfection is seen as possibility and, therefore, a thing of beauty; where discovery, struggle, and acceptance are the basis of continued growth and wonderment.”
“A loving relationship is one in which individuals trust each other enough to become vulnerable, secure that the other person won’t take advantage. It neither exploits nor takes the other for granted. It involves much communication, much sharing, and much tenderness.”
“A loving relationship is one in which one can be open and honest with another without the fear of being judged. It’s being secure in the knowledge that you are each other’s best friend and no matter what happens you will stand by one another.”
“A loving relationship is one which offers comfort in the silent presence of another with whomyou know, through words or body language, you share mutual trust, honesty, admiration, devotion, and that special thrill of happiness simply being together.”
“A loving relationship is an undemanding exchange of affection and concern, rooted in total honesty and continuing communication without exploitation.”
“A loving relationship is one in which the loved one is free to be himself—to laugh with me, but never at me; to cry with me, but never because of me; to love life, to love himself, to love being loved. Such a relationship is based upon freedomand can never grow in a jealous heart.”
“A loving relationship is one in which each one sees the beloved not as an extension of self but as a unique, forever becoming, beautiful individual—a situation in which the persons can bring their own special I to each other, a blending of selves without the fear of loss of self.”
