Dr.Lal I saw that you were perfect, and so I loved you. Then I saw that you were not perfect and I loved you even more.” – Angelita Lim.
Angelita Lim’s words capture the profound essence of love’s journey. At its core, love often begins with a sense of idealization. When we first fall in love, we are enraptured by the perceived perfection of our partner. Their quirks, smiles, and every word seem flawless. It’s as though we’ve found someone who fits perfectly into the image of the ideal partner we’ve held in our hearts.
This initial phase of love is magical. The world seems brighter, and every moment with our loved one is filled with joy and excitement. We are captivated by their charm, intelligence, and beauty. In those early days, it feels as if we are living in a dream, where everything is perfect and nothing can go wrong. This stage of love, often referred to as the honeymoon phase, is characterized by intense emotions and a deep sense of connection.
However, as time goes by, the illusion of perfection begins to fade. We start to see our partner’s flaws and imperfections. We notice the little habits that annoy us, the differences in opinions, and the occasional disagreements. This is a crucial moment in any relationship, as it tests the true strength of our love. It is easy to love someone when we believe they are perfect; the real challenge comes when we see their imperfections and still choose to love them.
When Lim says, “Then I saw that you were not perfect and I loved you even more,” she highlights the transformative power of unconditional love. This kind of love transcends the initial infatuation and delves into a deeper, more meaningful connection. It is a love that embraces the whole person, not just the parts that are easy to love. It is a love that accepts and cherishes the flaws, recognizing them as integral to the person’s unique identity.
In many ways, this deeper love is more profound and enduring than the initial infatuation. It is a love that is built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect. It acknowledges that both partners are human, with their own strengths and weaknesses. This acceptance fosters a sense of security and belonging, creating a safe space where both individuals can be their authentic selves without fear of judgment or rejection.
Embracing someone’s imperfections also means being willing to support them through their struggles and challenges. It means standing by their side, offering a helping hand, and providing comfort during difficult times. This kind of love is selfless and compassionate, always seeking to uplift and encourage the other person. It is a love that is patient and forgiving, recognizing that growth and change are part of the journey.
Moreover, this deeper love allows both partners to grow together. By accepting each other’s flaws, they create an environment where personal growth and self-improvement are encouraged. They learn from each other’s mistakes and work together to overcome obstacles. This mutual support strengthens their bond and makes their relationship more resilient.
It is also important to remember that self-love plays a crucial role in this process. To love someone unconditionally, we must first learn to love and accept ourselves, imperfections and all. Self-love is the foundation upon which healthy relationships are built. When we love ourselves, we are better equipped to give and receive love from others. We are more compassionate, understanding, and forgiving, both towards ourselves and our partners.
Lim’s words remind us that true love is not about finding someone who is perfect, but about finding someone whose imperfections we can embrace. It is about loving someone for who they truly are, not for who we want them to be. This kind of love is rare and precious, and it requires effort and commitment from both partners. It is a continuous journey of discovery, growth, and deepening connection.
In conclusion, Angelita Lim’s quote beautifully encapsulates the journey of love from initial infatuation to deep, unconditional acceptance. It reminds us that true love goes beyond the surface and embraces the imperfections that make each person unique. It is a love that grows stronger with time, built on a foundation of trust, understanding, and mutual respect. This kind of love is the essence of a lasting and fulfilling relationship, one that we should all strive to cultivate in our own lives.
By Dr.Lal
