What does it mean to be in love?  It’s a subject resulting in confusion or misconception to many; often being mistaken with lust.  For me, I believe I have found my own rendition.  Though I have loved, I still have yet to find that person to spend the rest of my life with.  My definition is my own, and no doubt will vary from person to person; each having their own belief.

To me love is something that sparks inspiration.  Artist often refer to their muse; that is what it is to me.  My partner becomes my muse and that’s first indicator that I deeply care for them.  When I am driven to create I feel as though I can take on the world.  Whether it be through photography,  my drawing, or even placing words on a page my ambition to create is intensified and enhanced.  When I am driven to design and impact others, often the subject is my source of inspiration, aspiration, interest, even love.  Anything I attempt will be a success because I tried.  My effort is strengthened and reinforced by the one at my side.

How does one know when love is real?  Love, true love, to me shows one clear sign when you find it.  It’s when someone has the ability to encourage you without the need for words.  We all seek support in our lives, but what differentiates simple support from love is the difference or need for physical action.  It’s a support that goes beyond physicality, either in speech or behavior and takes on a form of it’s own.  It’s an invisible force that lifts you up and pushes you forward without conscious thought.  You strive to become something more than you currently are.

Call me a hopeless romantic if you will; that’s certainly where I started.  Through experience I have gained new insight and pragmatism, being more concerned with my head, but I’m drawn to reconnect with my roots.  We could all use that little sense of magic, that naive hope that draws us together, and to embrace it.

I’m not saying my definition is right, or that you must agree with it.  I just consider the truth of my own heart.  I choose to be open and to see it, whatever it may be.  I strongly encourage any to do the same.  Take a look inside of yourself and be open to whatever you may discover.