"Some say love..." Response

When I thought about love, I always used to think that there is only one person meant for you—the “other half,” your “soul mate.” Our society repeatedly enforces this ideal through movies, “ideal” love stories, and fairytales until it is so engrained in us that a differing opinion is immediately seen as non-romantic or cynical. I have to admit, I used to have the opinion that there is only one person out there that is meant for you. But as I grow older, I am slowly starting to shift away from this ideal. It is a romantic idea—that one day you will meet someone who you will stay with for the rest of your life and love forever. However, this ideal lifetime relationship does not always happen. Because of my experience with divorce in my family, I know this firsthand. The thing with divorce is, it shapes your experiences. If my mom was not divorced, she would not be the person she is today. And the relationships she has had since have all taught her very valuable lessons. Just because she wasn’t with one person her whole life, does that mean that any of those relationships were not happy? Does that mean she should be unsatisfied and on the hunt for someone who will finally “complete her?” I think not. There’s no such thing as “Mr. (or Ms.) Perfect.” Everyone, as human beings, has flaws in one way or another. Marriage, as the article says, is not a state of bliss—it is a relationship, and any relationship can change with time and needs commitment and input in order to be successful. Think of it like this—no garden can grow and prosper if the gardener does not put any effort into it. Of course, I’m not trying to be cynical. I do believe that a lifelong loving relationship is possible—however, it’s just not the reality for everyone. As for the qualities and characteristics I seek in a relationship, it’s hard to say since I’m still very young and I’m no relationship guru. However, things that draw me to people include intellectuality, humor, compassion, and creativity. Things that are essential to any long-term relationship are usually found out a little later since they are less “on the surface”— like communication—but no less important in a potential long-term partner. I like that Taylor Swift’s “You Belong With Me” talks about how looks aren’t so important—it’s if you “click” with someone that counts, even if they’re not your friends’ favorite or not “popular.” I like Snow Patrol’s “Chasing Cars” because one of the verses reads “I need your grace/ To remind me / To find my own.” I like this line because it shows that a good relationship can bring out the best in each person and that your partner can be a positive influence and inspiration. I also like these lines from Adele’s “Make You Feel My Love”: “I’d go hungry, I’d go black and blue/ I’d go crawling down the avenue/ Go to the ends of the earth for you/ To make you feel my love.” This is a reminder that relationships sometimes involve self-sacrifice and that it’s not always effortless to be in a relationship. In addition, I like Alicia Keys’ “No One” because it talks about working through tough times and being strong together. Lastly, Barcelona’s “Colors” says that even as an adult, it may be difficult to communicate your words and emotions.