Let's talk about Love

by Yu Zhen

"There are people around the world...different faces, different names. But there's one true emotion that reminds me we're the same. Let's talk about Love." These are part of the lyrics sung by Celine Dion, Let's Talk about Love.

Love is not just a feeling but action! I can't agree it more especially when I finished watching, "It all starts with a kiss." It describes a stupid girl who loves a genius guy for five years, and she never throws in the towel at any difficulties she meets in the relationship. I really admire her courage and perseverance. I think that's why I'm so enchanted by this TV program.

How about real-life love? I'd like to put it this way, "real-life love brings out the best in us for the benefit of others." Instead of expecting to gain from your relationships, try the reverse. Practice the traits of love that gives, rather than takes.

Patience

No one is perfect. How do you react when he/she make mistakes? Do you tend to argue with each other or calm down to discuss the result? Try to be patient. It dosen't mean you admit that's all your fault but you'll let little annoying habits roll off your back, and be supportive when someone errs.

Kindness

The way you treat people shows your kindness ─ even when you are having a rough day. When you're temped to shout or lose your temper, chill out. Think about whether throwing a fit will help the situation. Chances are, you'll find better way to resolve the things which bothers you.

Contentment

Envy is the main enemy in relationships. People tend to think the grass is greener on the other side. They can't see what they have but focus on what they want. The key is remembering that no one is perfect. Every relationship needs work. Invest time in making yours great ─ otherwise you'll always want somthing else.

Humility

Love isn't a contest. Don't be full of yourself, and don't show off in front of people. The precious love is to appreciate each other not to seek approval from others.

Forgiveness

Be willing to say,"I'm sorry." Real love doesn't hold grudge. As the proverb goes: "Don't let the sun go down on your anger." Talk about the little things that bother you to avoid them becoming big problems later. Then try to forgive. When you let go unhappy memories, your merry life starts to move on.

Perseverance

Good relationships are built on commitment. This doesn't mean putting up with abuse, but it does require you to refuse to give up at the first sign of trouble. Shakespeare wrote, "Love is not love which alters when alteration finds." True love won't alter regardless of any difficulties.

Trust

Trust is key to healthy relationships. Without trust, you undermine the significance of love. Having faith in the other person shows that you believe what they did is always based on your best interests.

True love is not easy, but it's worth it. As Michael Leunig said, " Love one another and you will be happy. It's as simple and as difficult as that."

Adapted from Advanced, Love is... , Feb. 2006

[She is a student from Taiwan. Catch her on blog "Sunflower's Garden" http://spaces.msn.com/yuzhentaiwan/]