All About Love

“Echoing the work of Erich Fromm, he defines love as “the will to extend oneself for the purpose of nurturing one’s own or another’s spiritual growth.” Explaining further, he continues: “Love is as love does. Love is an act of will — namely, both an intention and an action. Will also implies choice. We do not have to love. We choose to love.”

I really enjoy this quote because I think, in many ways, it encompasses all the varying definitions of love. Everyone has different definitions of love based on their personal experiences and interactions with others, meaning that everyone gives and receives love differently. I think one of the keys to love and relationships of all kinds consists of good communication. Without openly expressing our feelings and our needs, how can deep and meaningful relationships form and thrive? Hook claims that by giving love words, we can foster deeper connections and create a foundation of trust and mutual respect. I think everything Hook discusses in this chapter relates to not only romantic relationships but also friendships and relationships with family members, coworkers, classmates, etc. To maintain healthy and strong relationships with others, I think it is important that one expresses their appreciation and love for the other person.