Love is Found in the Strangest Places

Recently, I found out that a friend of mine finally got engaged. Of all the men who have been in her life, this was certainly a proposal that was unforeseen which perhaps makes it even more special. The first thing that came to my mind was this: One's heart really cannot choose when and for whom it will beat, and sometimes even pound insanely. We have all heard of odd couple stories and have been surprised by people we never thought would end up together but are happy with one another. There are those who have so many high standards for prospective partners and yet end up going against their own benchmarks. Really it's better to just expect the unexpected when it comes to love.

"Age doesn't matter", as the old adage goes. Maybe it too applies for size or gender or economic status or family background or personality. Nothing matters, as others would argue, so long as you love each other wholeheartedly and you can fight for that love. Hhhmmm...some would beg to disagree. In this present period, life is already complicated as it is. Maintaining a complicated relationship--- uh, I guess you'll have to be a real toughie. Yes, maybe up to a certain point, the you-and-I-against-the-world mindset could help you rise against the tide. But for how long? Up to what extent and in whose expense? To be able to withstand the trials and hardships that come with these differences is a great challenge, especially if it involves other people outside of your relationship. Such circumstances can be awfully difficult and very painful.

I may have my reservations about extreme set-ups and really weird couple combinations, but hey, love's a strange thing. We think we know it and all its ins and outs, but it still manages to surprise us. Having had my share of ugly predicaments which had seemed never-ending during those times, I have been transformed from a dreamer to a realist. Love can sometimes be a harsh teacher, but I never once allowed it to stain my heart.

I believe that people who enter these rare kinds of relationships should be aware of the risks and potential difficulties and adopt a realistic perspective of things. However, they should be careful not to lose their hearts in the process.

For my friend who was struck with great love in the strangest of places, I am truly happy for her. It may seem bizaare for a lot of us, but then only they can decide if this is for keeps. Love certainly moves in mysterious ways and we should just be happy for those who have found theirs, whether it was in a classy restaurant or in a dark alley somewhere. Now making it work and staying happy---that's another story.