"When someone else's happiness is your happiness, that is love"

Love is a feeling that's tough to pin down, but one way to recognize it is when someone else's happiness becomes just as important—if not more so—than your own. This quote is really getting at the heart of selflessness in love. It’s about finding joy in another person's joy and caring deeply about their well-being.

Historically, this sentiment has been echoed in various philosophies and religions. For example, in ancient Greece, the concept of 'agape' was used to describe a selfless, unconditional love. Similarly, many religious teachings emphasize putting others first. Whether in a romantic relationship, a parent-child bond, or a close friendship, this kind of love is universal.

Let's say you have a friend who’s been working really hard towards a promotion at work. You’re invested in their success—not because it benefits you—but because you truly want to see them happy. You might even find yourself spending hours helping them prepare for a big presentation, feeling as much tension and excitement as if you were in their shoes. When the promotion comes through, you’re over the moon, celebrating their triumph as if it were your own. That’s the kind of love we're talking about. Their happiness lights up your world.

To apply this in your daily life, start by paying close attention to the small things that make your loved ones smile. Notice what brings them joy. Make an effort to support them in those endeavors, even if it’s something you might not be particularly interested in yourself. For instance, if your partner loves painting, encourage them, buy them art supplies, or help set up a small studio space. It’s about those little acts of love that show you care about their happiness.

Imagine this: you’re in a relationship with someone who loves hiking. You’re not much of an outdoorsy person—bugs, sweat, and all that—but you see how much joy it brings them. You decide to join them on a hike one weekend. It’s tough, you’re out of breath, and your legs are sore, but the smile on their face makes it all worth it. You realize that seeing them happy makes you happy too.

The key takeaway is that love often involves putting someone else’s needs and desires on par with your own. It’s not about losing yourself in the process, but about finding balance. You don’t have to become a completely different person or abandon your own happiness. Instead, it’s about making room in your heart for their joy and letting it become a part of your own.

So next time you’re with someone you love, think about what makes them light up. Make an effort to be a part of that happiness. It could be as simple as watching their favorite movie together or taking time to listen about their day. When their happiness becomes your happiness, you’re experiencing love in one of its purest forms.