love

I love LOVE. Everyday, i work with students, who remind me of this…what being in love means: respect, friendship, fun, growth, the list goes on. I find that love, or at least displays of love, differs between cultures. In my class of 9 students, 6 of them are in a “couple” relationship with each other. So, during class, they sit next to each other, help each other out, kiss (but not in a gross out “get a room” sort of way) –these are serious relationships.

At first, I will admit, I was stupefied by what I saw. Now, these “couple” students just fascinate me. They are so comfortable in their own skins.

For one, they are friends first, or so it seems. But there is also no wont of showing affection – even at times that I would deem inopportune. Which, for me, is pretty much all the time – although I will admit that I’ve pretty much gotten over that by now. They hug, they kiss, not grossly, but in an affectionate manner that how could one blame them? They are young, and well, it’s springtime all year around here. It’s beautiful. And even if you’re not young and it’s not springtime…why not? Life’s too short.

It is so natural to be in a “good and loving” relationship, that it’s positive and respected by peers. In a culture that is often derided by “machismo stereotypes” I see none of that. I see an equality of sexes, a going it together attitude. Everyday, during our short breaks from classes, I watch and observe and am continually impressed by the power of love and respect I see. It is overwhelmingly beautiful. In the playfulness and joy of two people being together, when they join with others, the love just spreads. It is absolutely overwhelming and beautiful. LOVE.