Saturday, December 12, 2009

I'm Not Infatuated

Infatuation: a foolish and usually extravagant passion or love or admiration; puppy love: temporary love of an adolescent; an object of extravagant short-lived passion.

Some infatuations last longer than others. Some last a week, others last long enough to lead to a foolhardy and short lived marriage. And yet, all too often we confuse this infatuation with love. I myself have been guilty of it. In fact, recently, while talking to my friend Brooklyn, we were discussing a girl I know and why I haven't asked her out. I said it was because even though she's perfect for me, I wasn't attracted to her. This is untrue. I realized later that I was saying I'm not infatuated with her. Relationships that begin from and are fueled by infatuation are often based heavily on physical attraction and urges, and rarely lead to deep and meaningful relationships. The relationships that last are those based around actual friendship. If you enjoy the company of another person and you like their personality, that is a foundation upon which you can build true love. It may not have the same giddy excitement of an infatuated fling, but it is more rewarding. So, when you're looking for someone to be with, don't look for someone who fills you with giddy excitement. Rather, look for that friend whose company you consistently enjoy.