Lately I've been contemplating the word love. It has so many, many different meanings, connotations, feelings, definitions... but can one word truly encompass all of that? Without a doubt, it has to be the most powerful word in the english language.
I remember a literature class I took in college where we discussed how eskimos have seperate words in their language for all different types of love. Romantic love, love between a family, love for things, etc. Having a seperate, unique word for the feelings they felt gave them an entirely different perspective on the emotions. I thought about how it would change the way I looked at love if I had seperate classifications.
I think our language might be a little lacking, I don't know if the word "love" cuts it. I mean I love my ipod, I love my dog, I love reading. All those things are great, and I use "love" to express that I more than like them.
But I also love my husband. I love him in the way that he is my other half, and without him my life wouldn't be complete. I love him because he fills in my shortcomings and builds up my strengths. I love him because is my constant support, and makes me feel like I am the most wonderful woman in the world.
Similarly, I love my family. I love that they have made me who I am, and are there for me at any second of any day. I love them because they bring me so much happiness, and because we are so united. I love that they are my favorite people in the world.
I love the gospel. I love that I can feel Gods love for me each and every day. I love that Christ atoned for us, allowing us to be imperfect and make mistakes. I love that God strengthens us and give us comfort in our toughest moments.
The last type of love I haven't had the chance to experience until recently. However, it is the one that made me certain the word "love" is so inadequate. To say that I love my son is such an understatement it almost makes me feel sad. There is no word in the english language that even comes close to touching upon the feelings I have for Emmett. Perhaps there never could be a word, because I don't think the feeling you feel for your children is a worldly emotion. I think it is the closest thing we have to Christ's love. It is a love that is so incredibly moving, just looking at my sweet little Emmett makes my eyes well up with tears. A love that makes me pray at night that all his pain and suffering will be taken from him, and given to me to suffer instead. A love that gives my life a whole new meaning, and makes me feel like my role on this earth is so much more important. A love that makes me think "Now I understand what life is all about".
Basically, our language just isn't sufficient... But apparently good ol' Webster didn't think that one through... ;-)
Basically, our language just isn't sufficient... But apparently good ol' Webster didn't think that one through... ;-)
That post just gave me chills! Couldn't have said it any better! You are so cute. I hope you guys are doing well! We miss you over here and you and your cute little babe are in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteThat is so true. I loved the way you described your feelings.
ReplyDeleteI guess we are going to have to make up our own words for the different kinds of love!! haha We both know you are very good at that! Seriously though....the word LOVE does need some way to distinguish what it is referring to.