Daily Compass

Romantic love is eros. It is the love that bonds partners together. It is the stuff of hearts and flowers and is often (but not always) accompanied by physical intimacy.

What does “romance” mean to you?

It is important that playful actions like teasing and tickling have firm, mutual, consensual, and respected boundaries. Each of us deserves to fully, freely, and joyfully consent to how we are treated and how our bodies are touched. And that consent can be fully and freely revoked at any time.

How do you tell people to stop doing something that is bothering you?

Sometimes love feels like a playful puppy, with boundless energy and undivided attention. That puppy requires a lot of care and instruction on how to grow up well.

How do you care for those you love?

Silly, playful, giggly love is ludus. It involves shared activities and mutual joy.

What is something that makes you laugh?

When my firstborn was very young, my father commented on how often I told her I loved her. He said, what if adults heard how they were loved as often as you tell your little one she is loved. I’ve taken that to heart. I tell the people in my life all the time that I love them – my adult kids, my husband, my parents, my extended family, my friends. I notice my kids do too. -Jody Malloy (CLF)

Who do you tell that you love them?