Dare 10

Love is unconditional.  I’ve heard about unconditional love before but never really understood what it meant until now. 

The book explains there are really 3 kinds of love, agape (pronounced uh-GOP-ay) which is the true unconditional love, meaning our love is not based on conditions – they are fun, pretty, dependable, handsome, strong, faithful etc. These are all conditions, which can easily change over time.  This kind of love is not determined by the one being loved, but by the one choosing to love.

Agape love differs from the other 2 kinds of love, phileo (friendship) and eros (sexual love) because unconditional love will not be swayed by time or circumstance.  It’s important to have friendship – common interests, and a healthy sex life, but if these are the only foundation for the relationship/marriage it may not last the test of time.

Phileo and eros can fluctuate based on feelings and changes in conditions. Agape love on the other hand is selfless & unconditional.  I know today that my marriage was mostly about Phileo & Eros love and had little Agape love, and now I know why it didn’t last – conditions changed! 

As I continue on my journey of life I don’t know if there is another intimate relationship/marriage in my future, but now that I understand the different kinds of love I will proceed with a little more knowledge of the heart.

Until next time...