Is it love or infatuation?

This article was published in the Calgary Herald on Valentine's Day while I was in high school. I've often thought about it, either in passing or for my own good, and never could find it published on the internet. While cleaning out my mom's filing cabinet for her tonight, I found the original article, now posted here for the sake of longevity, and because I think in the age of "every single person I know is getting married RIGHT NOW" it's always important to know that above all things, love is enough.

Infatuation is fleeting desire - one body calling to another. It is marked by a feeling of insecurity. You are excited and eager and maybe even giddy, but not genuinely content.There are nagging doubts, unanswered questions, little bits and pieces about the relationship that you would just as soon not examine too closely. It might spoil the dream.

Love is friendship that has caught fire. It takes root and grows, one day at a time.

Love is quiet understanding and mature acceptance. It is real. It gives you strength and grows beyond you - love bolsters and nurtures your beloved. You are warmed by their presence, even when they are away.

Miles do not separate you. You have so many wonderful films in your head that you keep replaying. Near or far, you know that your love is yours, and you can wait.

Infatuation says, "we must get married right away. I can't risk losing him".

Love says, "Be patient. Don't panic. Plan your future together with confidence".

Infatuation has an element of sexual excitement. Whenever you are together, you hope it will end in intimacy.

Love is not based only on sex. It is the maturation of friendship that makes sex so much sweeter. You must be friends before you can be lovers.

Infatuation lacks confidence. When he's away, you wonder if he is thinking only about you. Love, however, means trust. You are calm, secure and unthreatened. He feels your trust and it makes him love you more.

Infatuation might lead you to do things you will regret, but love never steers you in the wrong direction.

Love is elevating.
It lifts you up.
It makes you look forward.
It makes you better than you were before.