Why do we fall in love?

A few smiles help to initiate a conversation. A simple crush blossoms into a ‘puppy love’.

Things are all fine and dandy.

Making memories. Taking pictures. Capturing moments of pure joy and happiness in your mind like the words to your favourite song.

But then something weakens the bond. A comment. A look. An action. A missing piece. An off day.

The happy moments are compared – from then up until that weakening moment.

Taken for granted or have you just unknowingly set much higher, and possibly unrealistic, expectations.

Media pieces, as a collective, candy coat – or for you chocolate lovers, chocolate coat – the idea of love.

How we expect to feel.

What we expect it to look like.

How our partner should act.

All the right things to say.

What actions are defined as displays of affection and love.

Sadly, I believe we unknowingly base many of our decisions on what we view in the media. How to handle disagreements. How to react in moments of joy.

What to ask. What to say. How to reply.

I’m 25.

And the experiences I’ve had from previous relationships, in my past 10 years of dating, are nothing short of ‘lessons learned’ (the good, the bad, and the ugly) and changing my views to a more realistic perspective.

I just watched two teens walking across the beach holding hands, and I couldn’t help but stare as She laughed and giggled endlessly at whatever He was saying.

I just pictured in my mind, how that was me so many years ago. That young, hopeful, ‘in love’ teen. Completely lost in my own world, a relationship I thought was perfect in the moment and never going to end. He had to be The One.

Then that bond was weakened. Things changed. And all of the happiest moments …disappeared.

A relationship ended.

It’s a cycle.

We’ve all gone through it at least once. But when does that cycle end?

When the tough times are worth fighting through – but aren’t they all in the moment?