The first one.

 

“Well, it was true love- right from the start

True love, straight from my heart

True love, ain't no doubt about it, baby

True love, now I can't live without it.”

We have all experienced it, even if we are not sure we have. Falling in love is something that is not explainable—it just happens and when it does, we have changed. For ever.

Our first experience with love is when we’re born. Our families welcome us into their world, and hopefully—-as long as you don’t have a jealous sibling—-they actually want you. In my world, it was my Mom and Dad, but I am happy to report I do believe my sister and brother wanted me. My brother and I had a lot of good fights (I always lost) but I know he has always looked out for me. 

As we move through the years, love comes calling in a number of different ways. 

When we are in the early years of school, at least in my case, I wanted to be “in like” with someone, but even if I was it was "in like”— it always was a one-way street. I was, as they say, “husky” and I am not asking anyone to feel sorry for me, but I was not on any girls list of being desirable. It’s okay, I made it through.

The first time I was really introduced to the concept of having a girlfriend was when I was in a youth group. I was “dragged” into joining by my parents (the same ones who loved me from the moment I was born) and when I got to the building that night I knew I was in the right place. I met friends for life and am still in contact with some of them— and let’s face it, that was a long time ago. 

Probably what I received most from being with these new found friends, was the acceptance that I was one of them. When you are an outsider, and suddenly you have found many people who welcome you, it’s not only a good feeling, it’s a bond. 

I had my “first love” in this youth group; I won’t be specific of course, because I have certainly moved on (and I assure you she has as well) but it’s that first trust in telling someone how you really feel about them that you can never forget—-even if the other person has!

The photo above was taken at Brookfield Zoo many years ago. I used to “drag my youngest daughters” to the zoo because no other family member who could say “no” went with me—-but these two would. One day we went and a younger calf was near their mother—-I saw this shot happen, and when I thought I snapped the photo, I realized I missed it. But, if you wait long enough funny things happen. This is the true sign of love—and I didn’t miss it this time.

Thanks for stopping by.