By Nichole Therese Buyoc | PTV Public Affairs Intern
Love is often touted as the best thing that could happen in life. It teaches one to embrace imperfections and also teaches the importance of setting healthy boundaries to protect one’s well-being, rather than losing oneself as love unfolds.
But does love really last, or is it something that begins with the sweetest hellos and the hardest goodbyes?
In this new episode of Iskoolmates, the definition of love and heartbreak is explored by our guests, coach Joe, Jermione, and Mayline.
What is love?
Love is complex—it encompasses care, trust, commitment, and self-sacrifice. Along with that are risks—a gamble of emotions and affection, but just like they always say: “Love knows no bounds.”
According to Mayline, love is broad and complex. It is something that grows day by day through mutual decisions and intentions. Jermoine agreed, adding that love is when you observe and learn more about your significant other.
Coach Joe shared that love is all about action. It is the urge to do something and act on something. He emphasized that love takes time and requires patience.
Does love meet standards?
For Jermione, knowing how to commit is an ideal standard, as it proves love rather than mere infatuation. Time, she believes, is the ultimate truth-teller; people often feel infatuation and mistakenly think of it as love.
To Mayline, standards serve as a basis for choosing a partner. These include consistency, emphasizing that courtship should not only be present at the beginning but throughout the entire relationship.
Coach Joe emphasized the importance of knowing yourself first to set your standards. But does love require you to change for someone?
In response, he explained that relationships work both ways. Knowing your non-negotiables and boundaries helps you to identify what you can give without losing yourself.
The nuances of dating
When love is felt, it helps you bloom, especially when you are treated well, according to Jermione. Mayline agreed, explaining that love allows you to be yourself and to get to know your partner on a deeper level.
Being in a relationship should feel pleasant and bring out the best version of yourself rather than make you feel less. However, even in relationships that feel good, misunderstandings and miscommunication are inevitable parts of the process.
Dealing with heartbreaks
Having a strong support system makes heartbreak easier to bear, as these are the people you can rely on, Mayline shared. Jermione, on the other hand, opened up about being the complete opposite—choosing to deal with heartbreak alone while managing her work and social life.
Being productive helps, for eventually, you will find your balance, according to Coach Joe.
James reminded: it is okay to be sad—sometimes, you simply have to embrace it.
The discussion concluded with a valuable lesson: the secret to long-lasting relationship is peace. Peace teaches commitment and understanding, allowing partners to know one another.
The best kind of love is one that teaches you—even if it does not end well. Whatever experience you have been through should make you a better person.
As a final reminder, growth begins with thinking for yourself and becoming worthy of the standards you set.
-dac/jpv
