Brave Enough to Love?
I was listening to The Diary of a CEO, where Steve hosted lawyer James Sexton, who made a profound statement on love and commitment that inspired me to write this.
He said, “It’s so brave to love, and it is only brave because it is scary. It’s terrifying to know that this thing might break my heart, yet I’m going to let it because the joy it brings me in the meantime; I wouldn’t trade that for anything in the world.”
He added, “Life is terrifying and brutal, and it invariably ends. We’re all going to die; everyone we love is going to die. We’re playing a game we can’t win to the utmost. And to me, to have a partner in that; someone whose hand you can hold when you’re scared, who will be there for you and you for them, who helps you see your blind spots as you help them see theirs... what a beautiful thought that is.”
Reflecting on this, I realized how much courage it takes to love. Loving anyone is risky; it takes strength to open yourself to the possibility of pain, yet you make yourself vulnerable to them anyway.
Love requires you to open yourself to potential heartbreak and hurt, but the joy, the connection, and the deep meaning that come from loving someone are irreplaceable. The risk of being hurt pales compared to this experience.
This is why the greatest lovers, even after being hurt, still make room in their hearts to love again. To open ourselves fully to love and be loved authentically is no small feat.
It demands commitment because love is more than words; it’s action, consistency, sacrifice, and finding time for your beloved in the middle of life’s hustle. It’s respecting and understanding them without projecting your own insecurities onto them. Love is expressed not just in what we say, but in how we relate to each other.
Finding someone who genuinely loves and respects you without manipulating your feelings or taking you for granted is a rare and beautiful thing.
As I see it, there are only two options: find the right partner or have no partner at all.
Some people find fulfillment in life and community without romantic love, and that’s wonderful! Others feel a deep need for romantic connection, and for them, finding the right partner becomes essential. But looking for love out of loneliness, fear of being alone, or societal pressure can lead to wrong choices.
Seek the right partner because you’re happy, fulfilled, and eager to share and build a life with someone who understands you deeply and respects your individuality.
It takes time to truly know this person; to understand their past, their present, and their hopes for the future. You must learn their strengths and weaknesses and see how they align with your own. And if you’re the type to make sacrifices for someone you love, ensure they’re willing to do the same for you. This mutual commitment is essential. You should feel that you mean as much to them as they do to you.
While it’s debatable, I believe it’s important to share similar values and outlooks on life, family, and beliefs. Many people can fall in love, but those who make great partners are usually those who are already happy in themselves, who have explored the light and darkness in each other, and who know one another deeply. These are the bonds that last.
I hope you find such a person. And if you already have, hold them close.
-Ike
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