Still Life

I'm not quite sure how to best approach this next topic. It stems from a culmination of events and contemplations that I have been sifting through for almost a year and a half now. I suppose I will just write candidly and let my thoughts flow onto the page as my mind wanders.
We have lost all perception of what love is to be in our society. The simplicity and purity of it has become tainted by the bend of culture and the influence of preconceived notions. It has become a game in which short term success and satisfaction outweighs the greater purpose of caring for someone who has an incredible impact on your heart. This represents a complete aberration in one of the most simple acts known to man. Within the context of love, romantic or otherwise, the basis of human nature is voluntarily contrasted. The desire to selflessly consider the needs of another before the needs of yourself contradicts any assumed instinct toward self-betterment. Why, then, are such feelings entertained and pursued? The answer must rest within the simple devotion that one is willing to express in order to be a part of someone's life in a significant way, and in turn have them be a part of theirs.
I believe that this love is an extension of an unconditional love poured into us by a God who expressed his care through the greatest gift of all. Understanding that this love is channeled from such a greater source, we come to appreciate the magnitude and power of such action and its implications. It surely is not something to be taken lightly, but instead an ability worthy of gratitude and adequate effort.

I will talk plainly and simply for this next bit:
If you have been granted the opportunity to be with the one that you care for most, if you can look them in the eyes and tell them how you truly feel about them, then you are indeed blessed. Cherish them and give them the care that they deserve. Do not take them for granted. Respect them, put them first, guard their heart, uplift them. Be a representative of the love that God has shown down upon his creation, and reflect that love in all its simplicity, beauty, and purity. Do not taint such a special thing with selfish desires and petty doubts. Do not let the influences of external agents or prior circumstances undermine that gift.

I will talk more on this subject later.