Photo by Aung Soe Min on Unsplash

“One word frees us of all the weight and pain in life. That word is Love.” Socrates

Love is a universal desire, sought by many and cherished by all who find it. By the time we reach adolescence, we often yearn for someone who loves us unconditionally, just for who we are. This longing begins early, and it’s remarkable how every moment becomes more vibrant when we experience the rush of adrenaline and dopamine that love brings.

You can’t simply decide to find love; it often appears when you least expect it. Sometimes it arrives in the form you dreamed of, and other times, it’s completely different from what you imagined. I’ve encountered people who have never truly experienced being in love, only knowing the concept of loving family members but not the deep, romantic connection with another person.

Love can be indescribable, but I want to share a part of my story to illustrate what true love looks and feels like.

Photo by Min An on Pexels

My Love Story with Michael

Michael and I spoke on the phone for weeks before he asked me out. We discussed various topics—music, childhood, parents, politics, and religion—conversations that flowed effortlessly. I felt comfortable expressing my true feelings, even before meeting him face-to-face. When he finally asked me out, I was both anxious and excited.

The day of our date, he arrived at my apartment. When I opened the door and our eyes met, it felt like closure on my past and a new beginning all at once. During dinner, he kept glancing at me over his menu, making the moment a bit awkward but endearing. As we walked back to the car, he held my hand, and I felt a deep sense of safety for the first time.

Our 17 years together were filled with ups and downs. Just five months into dating, Michael fell seriously ill, losing weight rapidly and enduring immense pain. After several doctor visits, he was diagnosed with lupus, a rare condition in men. Despite the challenges, I never considered leaving him. His love was pure, and that’s a rare find.

Michael showed me what love truly is: understanding, patience, non-judgmental acceptance, and awareness of each other’s presence. These may not be traditional descriptions of love, but they embody my experience and the love he gave me.

Michael passed away in 2023 due to COVID-19. I hold on to the hope of experiencing love again one day. Everyone’s journey to find love is unique, but the key question is: Are you willing to open up and embrace the possibility of being loved?