Love is More Than Four Letters

Love is More Than Four Letters

By John W. Vander Velden

On a cold Sunday afternoon, I watched as a man, well into his eighties, had the arm of a bent old woman looped through his own.  They moved with care across the parking lot of a restaurant -- together.  Those that took the time to observe, understood a lifetime shared.  You see, love is more than four letters.  It is more than words spoken.  Not that words have no meaning.  Not that words need not be shared.  But real love is revealed by simple acts -- continuously.

There are those that foolishly feel that it takes gifts, large and small, to prove affection.  Some feel cheated when they are not the recipient of some grand thing.  And though the sharing of gifts can bring joy, love is more than diamonds.  The patient listening to a day’s challenges.  A supporting word, when confidence has failed.  Knowing that no matter what, you will never abandon.  These are the gifts that carry the highest value.

Some feel that passion is love's only measure.  That physical desire controls every need of those connected.  That with passions waning, the human bond fades.  Surely intimacy is vital to any that seek connection.  The private sharing -- the quiet times -- the together-aloneness -- needed.  Love is more than any physical act.  It is the knowing -- the believing -- and understanding of another.  Those thing only grow with years.  Sharing time and space -- laughter and tears -- achievements and disasters -- with time, can bind two people tighter. Two living individuals, yet teamed to battle life’s wars together.  Each bringing strengths and weaknesses – complimenting – reinforcing – as they face futures unknown.  Those are the signs of true intimacy – and life is their passion.

That old couple understood.  They knew that love is more than four letters…

 (300 Words)