What is real love? (Part 2)

In Part 1 of What Is Real Love?, I asked the question: Is love a choice? In Part 2, I will explore the question: Is love blind?

There is a saying:

“Love is blind” — Geoffrey Chaucer (1401)

Definition: People in love may not see the problems or imperfections their partners have.

True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. On the contrary, it is calm and deep in nature. It looks beyond mere externals and is attracted by qualities alone. It is wise and discerning, and its devotion is real and enduring. Love is a precious gift we receive from Jesus. Pure and holy affection is not merely a feeling but a principle. Those who are guided by true love are neither unreasonable nor blind. (Letters to Young Lovers, E. G. White, 1983, p. 30)

What is the origin of “love is blind”?

“Love is blind” is a simple statement about how people behave when they are in love. It is often associated with Cupid (the Roman god of love), who is traditionally depicted as blindfolded, suggesting that love does not see clearly. One interpretation is that Cupid may choose the wrong match because he cannot see. That is only one version of the story.

What is real love?

Love is accepting a person with all their imperfections. It goes beyond external appearance. You may be fully aware of a person’s behavior, but you choose to love them as they are. Remember, these imperfect people still have good qualities; they are not abusive or disrespectful. That is why love is a choice.

So, true love is being aware of and accepting a person for who they are. “Love is blind,” on the other hand, describes a state where feelings prevent people from seeing reality clearly. When those feelings fade, one may realize they were not truly compatible with the person.

1 Corinthians 13:4–7 (KJV)Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

Love unconditionally.