TOP TEN DEFINITIONS OF THE WORD "LOVE", FROM PRIMAL TO ULTIMATE
by John C. Randall
Love has its definition in the mind’s eye of the source and in the different mind’s eye of the receiver. We communicate to influence the thinking of those who hear, see, feel, smell, or read what we communicate. In the mind’s eye one will find at least two primal, unspoken questions that are constantly seeking answers: “What do you want from me?” and “What is in it for me?”
The primal motivator is desire for gain, and fear of loss; fear is usually the strongest. Also, within the framework of individual wisdom, ignorance, or just plain foolishness, there is the additional impact of communications being used as a source of power by one on another for good -- or evil -- by the use of bold, or subtle, messages reflecting the imposition of the pressure of might, money and/or mind.
When it comes to defining the word "love", within the concept of interactive communications (all forms), one might consider the following to be like ten yard lines on a football field, with the goal at one end (the opponent) being completely self-serving, and the goal at the other end (the home team) being completely able to reflect God’s love and his ultimate Gift, Jesus Christ. In life moments, many combinations of "love communications" may be interacting at the same time.
1. PHILAUTIA (love of self, narcissism, seek without giving): this form of love may be considered what exists when you are good to yourself, but also self-obsessed and focused on personal fame and fortune.
2. UTILITARIAN (pseudo-friendship): a conditional form of love that has as its root the driver that it is very practical or useful. It is applied by using the object of the love for one’s own advantage.
3. LUDUS (playful love, fun): this Latin word has multiple meaning in the fields of training, sport, games, or play. It is used to outwit and exploit others. It is all about winning. In another context, flirting and dancing with strangers in a bar reflects ludus.
4. EROS (romantic love or sexual passion): rooted in Greek, this is the sensual love between a husband and a wife. It reflects the emotional and spiritual bonds of marriage, and for reproduction. It may also involve a loss of control, and be irrational. It must be mutual and not selfish. If it is based on self-benefit, it’s a weak form of love (7 year itch). You are face-to-face and focused on each other.
5. PHILO (deep-friendship): genuine friends or friendship that reflects affection, tender and warm platonic love. You make the choice, as does the other individual. Those who are fighting side-by-side on the battlefield frequently reflect philo love. It is one that survives when you are down and genuine friends are what you really need. You are side-by-side and are united by common interests that transcend “self”.
6. STORGE (family, i.e. mother’s love of one’s own child): unconditional love of family and close friends, that accepts all faults and flaws. You are willing to forgive, and feel the commitment and security of the bonds.
7. PRAGMA (mature, give rather than just receive): reflects the mature, long standing love of those you love. It goes well beyond “falling in love” to “staying in love”. Compromise and mutual respect, reflecting patience and tolerance is the root. One does not “own” another in this form of love.
8. HUMANITARIAN (impersonal, but love everybody): broad and inclusive of humanity (but might not reflect any love of individual). It embraces all, but still might exclude some. Discrimination (NIMBY) can be a source of exclusion.
9. AGAPE (the “gift love”): this love reflects the divine-love of the Lord towards his Son, Jesus Christ, human beings, and all believers. It is unconditional with no expectations of anything in return, given with the hope that it will be received and accepted. John 14:21
10. GOD’S HOLY LOVE, THE WORD, HIS DEEDS AND JESUS CHRIST (guide for living life - and to eternal life): read the ultimate love messages from the sovereign God, the contents of the Holy Bible; For more insights, why not study and seek insights from many free access Bible Commentaries such as those listed in the Christians That Care http:cTc.tv web site page, Bible Treasure Chest. Also, More Than A Carpenter by Josh McDowell.
(© 2006-2017 John C. Randall, excerpted from private publications and Mastering Your Marketing, ISBN 978-0-935864-05-2
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