Douglas Horton: 'If you love something let it go free. If it doesn't come back, you never had it. If it comes back, love it forever.'

If you love something let it go free. If it doesn't come back, you never had it. If it comes back, love it forever.

Douglas Horton's quote, 'If you love something let it go free. If it doesn't come back, you never had it. If it comes back, love it forever,' holds a deep and thoughtful message about love, relationships, and the concept of attachment. At its core, this quote speaks to the notion of letting go of expectations and allowing individuals or things to follow their natural course. It emphasizes the idea that true love should be based on voluntary choice rather than coercion or control. By giving freedom to what we love, we give them the space to grow, evolve, and determine their place in our lives. If they return, it signifies a genuine bond that withstands distance or time – a love worth cherishing forever.This quote resonates with the understanding that love is not about possessing or holding onto tightly but about embracing the ebb and flow of life. It urges individuals to trust in the organic flow of relationships, acknowledging that not everything or everyone is meant to stay in our lives permanently. By releasing our grip on what we love, we exhibit a profound level of respect and understanding, knowing that everyone has their own journey to navigate.However, delving deeper into this concept of letting go and allowing things to come back draws parallels to the philosophy of existentialism. Existentialism, a philosophical movement that emphasizes individual existence, freedom, and choice, aligns with the idea of letting go and welcoming back. Existentialists believe that individuals must create their own meaning in life and are responsible for their own choices and actions. By releasing control and allowing things to naturally return, individuals embody the existentialist principles of authenticity and acceptance of life's uncertainties.In contrast, some may argue that the notion of letting go and waiting for things to come back can border on passivity and reliance on external forces. Critics may assert that actively pursuing what we love and taking decisive actions to nurture relationships is equally crucial. Balancing the art of letting go with proactive engagement can lead to a more holistic and grounded approach to love and connection.In conclusion, Douglas Horton's quote encapsulates the essence of love, freedom, and authenticity within relationships. By understanding the significance of letting go and welcoming back what we hold dear, we embark on a journey of self-discovery, trust, and appreciation for the complexities of human emotions. Pairing this concept with existentialist principles adds a unique philosophical layer to the quote, inviting contemplation on the intersection of love, freedom, and personal responsibility in our interconnected lives.