Margaret Chase Smith: 'In real love you want the other person's good. In romantic love, you want the other person.'

In real love you want the other person's good. In romantic love, you want the other person.

The quote by Margaret Chase Smith, "In real love you want the other person's good. In romantic love, you want the other person," delves into the intricate dynamics of love and the contrasting notions of real love versus romantic love. At a surface level, the quote suggests that true, genuine love is about desiring what is best for the other person, while romantic love tends to focus more on fulfilling personal desires and wishes. However, by introducing an unexpected philosophical concept, we can further explore the depths of this quote and unearth a more profound understanding of love. Let us embark on this philosophical journey and delve into the nuances of these two types of love.Love, as a concept, has always intrigued philosophers and thinkers throughout history. It traverses boundaries of time, culture, and societal norms, making it a subject of fascination for many. The distinction between real love and romantic love elucidated by Margaret Chase Smith allows us to explore the different facets of love and reflect on the true nature of our affection.Real love, as Smith suggests, centers around wanting the other person's good. It transcends the boundaries of self-interest to prioritize the happiness and well-being of the beloved. In its essence, real love is selfless, driven by a desire to see the other person thrive, even if it means sacrificing our own desires and needs. This type of love requires empathy, understanding, and a genuine sense of care for the other person's growth and happiness.On the other hand, romantic love typically focuses more on the intense emotions, passion, and desires that arise between two individuals. It often begins as an infatuation, fueled by physical attraction and the allure of the initial stages of a relationship. Romantic love tends to be more ego-centric, as the primary focus is on the fulfillment of one's desires and the emotional satisfaction that comes from being with the other person. While it can be exhilarating and thrilling, romantic love can sometimes lack the depth and longevity that real love embodies.To shed light on an unexpected philosophical concept that might provide a deeper understanding of love, let's explore the ideas of existentialism. Existentialism posits that individuals create their own meaning in life and bear the responsibility for their choices and actions. Applying this philosophy to our understanding of love, we can argue that real love aligns more closely with existentialist principles.Real love, in its selflessness and consideration for the other person's well-being, reflects the existentialist belief that true fulfillment is found in connecting with others and actively contributing to their happiness. By prioritizing the good of the other person, individuals engaged in real love align themselves with the existentialist notion of creating meaning and purpose through their relationships.In contrast, romantic love might be seen as more aligned with the existentialist concept of authenticity. In the intense emotions and desires characteristic of romantic love, individuals may feel a deep sense of aliveness and authenticity, as they embrace their passions and engage fully in the relationship. However, this authenticity should not be confused with selflessness, as it often stems from personal fulfillment and the gratification of individual desires, rather than a genuine concern for the other person's well-being.In conclusion, Margaret Chase Smith's quote offers a valuable perspective on the differing dynamics of real love and romantic love. While both types of love possess their own unique qualities and beauty, the distinction lies in the underlying intentions and motivations. Real love exemplifies selflessness, a deep care for the other person's good, and aligns with the existentialist principles of meaning and purpose. In contrast, romantic love, while passionate and fulfilling in its own right, often revolves around personal desires and authenticity. By understanding these nuances, we can forge deeper and more authentic connections in our relationships, and perhaps even cultivate a love that encompasses both the real and romantic aspects of affection.