Love Vs. Infatuation (an article by Anne Landers)

I have saved this article by Anne Landers for several years as did the writer who requested it. I think it is a great article for those of us that may be unsure of what we have. I am in love with a wonderful man  who is very caring,  very trusting and treats me with utmost respect. Ron Ferington... I love you with all my heart. I have been in a relationship not long ago where I was cheated on, lied to... there was no trust. And he brags about this on his Myspace. What kind of man would do this? Well...EXACTLY, can't be much of a man, if he's bragging.
Well, for those of you that are interested. Please enjoy it and copy/paste and share if you like. I did not write it... The credit goes to  Anne Landers.


  DEAR ANNE LANDERS: I have been carrying your essay, Is It Love Or Infatuation?" in my wallet for a dozen years. It guided me through three relationships and it helped me recognize the real thing when it came along. Please print it again for those who are unsure.-- S.L. in Boston

DEAR BOSTON: I love playing cupid. What perfect timing! Here's the essay on Valentine's Day. Is It Love Or Infatuation?

      Infatuation is instant desire- one set of glands calling to each other. Love is
friendship that has caught fire. It takes root and grows,one day at a time.
    Infatuation is marked by a feeling of insecurity. You are excited and eager but
not genuinely happy. There are nagging doubts, unanswered questions, little bits
and pieces about your beloved that you would just as soon not examine too
closely. It might spoil the dream.
    Love is the quiet understanding and mature acceptance of imperfection. It is
real. It gives you strength and grows beyond you-to bolster your beloved.
You are warmed by his presence,even when he is away. Miles do not separate
you. You have so many wonderful little films in your head that you keep replaying.
But near or far, you know he is yours and you can wait.
     Infatuation says, "We must get married right away. I can't risk losing him."
Love says, "Be patient. Don't panic. Plan your future with confidence."
     Infatuation has an element of sexual excitement. Whenever you are together
you hope it will end in intimacy. love is not based on sex. it is the maturation of
friendship which makes sex so much sweeter. You must be friends before you can
be lovers.
    Infatuation lacks confidence. When he's away, you wonder if he's cheating.
Sometimes you check.
    Love means trust. You are calm, secure, and unthreatened. He feels you
trust,and it makes him even more trustworthy.
    Infatuation might lead you to do things you will regret, but love never steers
you in the wrong direction. Love is elevating. It lifts you up. It makes you look up.
It makes you think up. It makes you a better person than you were before.