“It’s not an accidental entanglement; it’s an intentional knot.
Brene Brown
Love belongs with belonging.”
Falling in love is different than staying in love. Falling in love happens, but staying in love is intentional. It requires you to go above and beyond your natural feelings of excitement and become a relationship superhero.
How? Here’s 3 really great ways to do that:
1. Take a Bullet
Not a literal bullet. If someone shoots you, it’s not a healthy relationship and you should leave. But as a metaphor, intentional love feels like you would be willing to sacrifice your life for the sake of your partner. It feels like your love is so strong that if you had to choose between your personal interest and the interest of your partner, you would choose them. There is something about this kind of love that conveys the importance of you place on them in your life. We see this kind of love when a father risks his life running into a burning building to save his child, or a wife who donates a kidney to keep her husband alive. Taking a “bullet” is the highest form of love that can be expressed.
2. Be Steadfast
In other words, be someone they can count on. Say what you mean and follow through. Without trust a relationship will feel like a sinking ship. You’ll never know if you are going to make it to shore. A steadfast relationship has assurances that keep it strong and trustworthy so those involved can feel secure and safe.
3. Love Courageously
Don’t close off or be constantly angry because you’re afraid of getting hurt. Look fear in the eye and open your heart to your loved ones. This kind of love pushes through to the other side regardless of how intimidating or risky it is.