In a world overflowing with quick connections and fast goodbyes, I can’t help but feel that society has forgotten what it truly means to love. Not the version of love we post on timelines or attach to cute quotes but the kind of love that holds space, pushes us, and sometimes even aches because it’s so real.

Authentic love isn’t about comfort. It isn’t about staying where it’s safe, convenient, or predictable. Authentic love asks us to step beyond ourselves to show up even when it’s hard, even when the ego is bruised, even when fear whispers that it’s easier to walk away.

I’m not talking about love that asks you to abandon yourself or accept abuse, manipulation, or spiritual draining. True love doesn’t strip you of your voice, your worth, or question your boundaries. Authentic love doesn’t ask you to bleed to prove it’s real or even have you jump through loops to prove your worth.

Trust is the soil love grows from. Without it, love becomes a performance. A mask. A transaction between you and someone else. To love authentically, we must trust not just the other person but also ourselves. We must trust that our vulnerability is not a weakness. That our truth is worth hearing. That when we open our hearts, we are not foolish we are courageous.

Trust allows love to soften us. To stay open when we’re tempted to close. To believe in connection even when we’ve been hurt. Trust is telling someone, “I see you, and I choose you.”

Seems like so many are being taught to love with conditions. To love only when it fits their narrative. To love only when it reflects back what they want to see. But real love asks for more. To listen when we want to defend. To apologize when we’re wrong and to respect someone’s soul.

I believe the world needs this kind of love. The kind that doesn’t run. The kind that doesn’t manipulate. The kind that remembers humanity,  tenderness, and authentic connections.

We’re not here to perform love. We’re here to be love and live it authentically.