Love is not a destination, it's a journey.

"I will sing of Your mercy that leads me through valleys of sorrow to rivers of joy." - Jars of Clay

This song came to me after reading an excerpt from the book, Hinds' Feet in Hind Places. The main character, Much-Afraid, is speaking to her Master who is leading her on her journey. Her Master, the Shepherd says, " Much-Afraid...Don't you know by now that I never think of you as you are now but as you will be when I have brought you to the Kingdom of Love and washed you from all the stains and defilement of the journey?" From there the Shepherd reminds Much-Afraid of how Sorrow and Suffering bring forth songs of joy.

Anything and everything I perceive love to be is derived from my relationship with God. From what I learn from my moments with God, I use to reflect on my relationship with myself and in what I want in a future marriage. And, I'm realizing that we're often taught to view love as a destination. We seek a feeling or a person instead of learning love itself. That is why disappointment comes in marriages and divorce rates are high. Love is a journey, not a destination.

Whether it is self-love or the love of a partner, we need to stop seeking love as if it's hiding around a corner. Love is. It is a choice. It is eternal, it is power and it is unconditional. I've been guilty of seeking benefits of "love". Love shouldn't be defined as the outcome. Love in itself is NOT joy, happiness or sunshine and does not guarantee these things. One thing love guarantees is that it endures all things. Love IS choosing joy through suffering and sorrow. It doesn't mean everything will always be perfect and bright. Love is a commitment to endure the journey come hell or high water. And through endurance comes character and strength. From going through the journey, joy can be found, but it shouldn't be confused with love being the final destination.