What Does Love Mean to You?

Years ago when I asked an elderly woman what she believed love to be her response was that love was being able to think about cleaning the other person’s dirty underwear and not feeling sick to your stomach. At the time, I didn’t get what she was saying, but I think I’ve figured it out.

I think what the elderly woman was trying to tell me was that when honest love exists, it means you are completely able to deal with the really stinky stuff life throws at the two of you with your shoulders squared.

To me, love is remaining loyal and faithful even when you’re so angry you could spit fire. Love is knowing that no matter what, you’ve got someone to count on. It’s unconditional and makes you feel good on the inside. Love is laughter. Love is warm and gentle. Love is someone who won’t let you face your problems alone, an unconditional commitment to an imperfect person. Love is the willingness to sacrifice everything for someone else. Love is the feeling that something is missing when you're not with the people who hold your heart and it's the realization that everything feels so much better when you are together.

What does love mean to you? This is a question that I asked my family, friends, and community and I think it's just beautiful to see how love means so many different things to people. From a mother who makes her son's favorite meal for the family on her birthday to the husband who gingerly bathes his cancer-stricken wife. Watch:

What does love mean to you? I'd love to hear your thoughts!