on love

when i was younger and inexperienced, i thought that being in love was the warm feeling inside when you think about that person, the intimate displays of affection, the celebration of each other, an emotional security blanket, basically what i'd read about in the novels, seen on television, and in the movies. 

basically, the complete opposite of what i saw in my parents' relationship.

after a number of emotional heartbreaks followed by long periods of self-pity, a few months online-dating, a few speed-dating experiences, and the support of many close family and friends, i finally learned.

i learned that while being in love is vital in a relationship, there are equally important qualities, not necessarily what we'd consider traditionally romantic. i see that it is both parties' willingness to seek the better in each other, support each other in times of hardship, and be committed to work together towards a common goal, which are just as vital in a relationship. and actually i personally do find those moments pretty romantic.

during our multiple moves from union square to brooklyn and from brooklyn to chelsea, there were many moments where i felt the stress of balancing work, our living/moving situation, and the construction process. it was during these times that kevin supported me and helped me prioritize. even in the simple things, like moving furniture around the apartment together, reaffirms these lessons for me.

basically what my parents have exemplified in their +35 years of marriage.

lesson to self: watch and pay close attention to my parents more often.