"To love a thing means wanting it to live."

To love something is to desire its existence and flourishing. It’s appreciating it so deeply that you not only want it to survive but to thrive and grow. This idea is all about genuine care and affection. It’s about wanting the best for someone or something because you truly value it.

Let's wind the clock back to get a bit of context. This sentiment echoes through human history and philosophy, particularly in discussions about love and relationships. It’s not just about romantic love either—it's about all forms of deep, caring connections. Think of parents with their children, pet owners with their animals, or even our relationship with nature. The true essence of loving isn’t possessiveness or control; it’s about nurturing and supporting growth.

Here's a vivid example of this idea in action. Picture a gardener. She has a plot of land and tends to her plants every day. She's out there in the early morning light, watering, weeding, and sometimes just talking to her plants (yes, people do that!). She’s not doing this out of a desire to own the plants. She doesn’t want them to just be static decorations. She wants them to bloom and bear fruit. Her love for her garden is evident in the time and care she invests. It’s about seeing her plants thrive under her care.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in everyday life? Start with your relationships. Think about the people you love. Do you support their dreams and aspirations? Do you want them to succeed and be happy, even if it means they might end up taking a path that doesn’t include you? That’s real love—being able to let go and support someone’s growth because you genuinely want the best for them.

Imagine your best friend has always dreamed of moving to a new city for a job opportunity. You might miss them terribly, but real love means encouraging them to take that leap. It’s about their growth, their dreams. Holding them back for your own comfort isn’t love—it's fear and selfishness.

I've got a story that might hit home. There was this guy, Dave, and his dog, Rex. Dave found Rex as a stray puppy, malnourished and scared. He took Rex in, fed him, took care of his health, and they formed a bond. As Rex grew stronger, Dave realized Rex had incredible agility and loved running. So, Dave started training Rex for agility courses. At the start, it was hard work, but Rex loved it. He thrived. Eventually, Rex started competing and winning. Dave didn’t keep Rex cooped up because he might get hurt or because the training sessions were exhausting. He loved Rex and wanted him to live his best life.

When you love something or someone, you want them to live fully. You want to see them shine and fulfill their potential. It’s about stepping back sometimes, and letting them have the space to grow. It’s about support, encouragement, and unselfish care. So, the next time you think about what or who you love, ask yourself—do you want them to live and thrive? If the answer is yes, then you’re on the right track. And that’s a beautiful thing.