Is love the feeling you get in the pit of your stomach when you see that certain someone? Or is love having a mutual trust and understanding of one another? Is love that aching you get in your loins when you're object of affection enters the room? Or is love being comfortable with one another? Is love the constant feeling of walking on air? Or is love sharing the same vision, beliefs, values and philosophies?

People often believe that love begins with the initial, physical attraction. I feel that love, real love, is a combination of emotional, mental, and yes, physical aspects. It usually begins in the mind, spreads to the physical world, and finally manifests itself emotionally. But the emotional feeling we sometimes call love has very little to do with what love is really all about.

Let's examine what love is not. When we first start dating, many times we feel very strong, positive emotions. This is the infatuation stage, which slowly fades in new relationships. Those who believe that this stage is true love often go from one relationship to the next when the feeling diminishes. The person who is waiting only for a feeling that bowls them over, might never get involved in a relationship.

This feeling is also sometimes referred to as chemistry, and there are different kinds of chemistry... physical, intellectual and emotional. Initially, we are attracted to someone physically (unless we're involved in a relationship that begins on the Internet). We shouldn't disregard physical chemistry entirely, but if the mental connection between a couple is strong, then a lack of overwhelming physical attraction shouldn't be discounted.

"Love" may sometimes begin with physical attraction, but unless there is also an intellectual and emotional attraction, the relationship won't develop beyond that. The lack of a strong intellectual or emotional connection shouldn't be discounted either, as both can be enhanced by sharing experiences, hopes, dreams and fears, � by getting to know the person. Being physically, intellectually and emotionally connected with your partner is wonderful, but you need to be spiritually connected too. When you're spiritually connected, you have the ability to communicate without words. You really know each other.

Examine what you want, need and desire, in a relationship. Do you want someone that allows you to share your hopes and dreams? Do you desire to share in long conversations? Do you want someone that meets your intellectual needs? Would you like to be partnered with someone that lets you be yourself, express your opposing views or opinions, without fear of being rejected? Do you want someone willing to work toward compromise when a problem arises?

Determine what aspects of a relationship you find true and lasting. Define love, what it means to you, and seek out that person who shares your vision of love.

And remember, the above is only MY opinion.