One seeks to make the loved one entirely happy, or, if that cannot be, entirely wretched.

This quote highlights the intensity and the paradox of love. It suggests that when we love someone, our primary goal is to make them entirely happy. We want to be the source of their joy, the reason behind their smiles, and the comfort in their distress. We want to fulfill their dreams, meet their needs, and exceed their expectations. We strive for their happiness because their happiness becomes ours too. Love, in this sense, is selfless and giving.

However, the quote also admits that achieving such a level of happiness is not always possible. In such cases, love can turn into its opposite, making the loved one entirely wretched. This is because love is not just about joy and happiness, it’s also about vulnerability and pain. When we open our hearts to someone, we also expose ourselves to the risk of being hurt. We might end up causing them pain, not because we want to, but because we can’t help it. This is the tragic side of love that we often overlook.

In today’s world, this idea can be applied to our relationships and personal development. It reminds us that love is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it can bring us the greatest joy and fulfillment. On the other hand, it can also bring us the deepest sorrow and despair. Therefore, we need to handle our relationships with care and responsibility. We need to strive for the happiness of our loved ones, but also prepare ourselves for the possibility of pain and disappointment.

In terms of personal development, this quote encourages us to embrace both the light and dark sides of love. It teaches us that love is not just about the pursuit of happiness, but also the acceptance of suffering. It’s about learning to love unconditionally, without expecting anything in return. It’s about growing through our experiences, both good and bad, and becoming a better person because of them. This is what makes love such a powerful and transformative force in our lives.