February is the month of love and many people have their own definition of what love means to them. I have had relationships of my own that taught me more about myself and what it takes to love someone else.
When I watch movies and television, however, the relationships I see are fairytale-like and scripted. I know that there are couples out there who feel their love story is similar to those on the big screen, but the majority of us know love does not always smell like roses, we won’t always see fireworks when we kiss and we can’t always daydream to the point where our relationship is on cloud nine. Even if we were to experience all of these things, the feeling of excitement brought on by something new only lasts for a little while.
There are so many contributing factors that make relationships function the way they do. I not an expert when it comes to love, but I thought I should reach out to couples I believe set a great example of what makes a great relationship.
One of the couples I chose was my uncle, Eddie Quillopo, and my aunt, Freda Quillopo. They were great examples of how love perseveres as I grew up; both my aunt and uncle instilled those values in myself and my cousins. One thing I admire about them is even though they are busy running their painting business, serving at church, volunteering and making sure family is taken care of, they always make sure to make time for each other. They still look for opportunities for adventure and even dedicate a night just for the both of them. With Valentine’s Day a day based on love, my uncle has made it a yearly tradition to buy flowers for my aunt and chocolates for the kids.
Another couple I sat down with are college friends of mine. Ethel Viloria and Jarrold Sumibcay were high school sweethearts and plan to marry this summer. Just like my aunt and uncle, they have had the opportunity to grow up with each other. I’ve watched their relationship grow and know they had obstacles to overcome during their years together. Their relationship showed perseverance during a time when both were focused on their individual lives and at the time were uncertain if their love would prevail.
With both couples together for a significant amount of time, it amazes me how they continue to keep the fire going. In the video above, I ask them questions about how they met, the hurdles they had to go through and what they think makes a relationship work.
For single people, love may just come knocking on your door when you least expect it. Just because you may not have a significant other to celebrate with, you should celebrate the love you do have in your life. Call up your single friends, surround yourself with people who love you and rename this holiday to Single Awareness Day. You don’t need to go out and find love, because it will look for you and embrace you.
For the ones who have someone to celebrate with, love will not always be perfect, but it will always be worth it. Love is patient, it is a teacher, a provider; love is what helps keep us inspired each day.
Think about the one you are with and what you love about them. Show them you care and that you appreciate all they do. Do something to show your loved ones how much you care; remember it’s the little things that count.
Relationships last because two people make a choice — they choose to nurture their relationship, respect it and honor it.
Jermellynn 