The Hidden Power of Language and Definitions
One of the most remarkable tricks of colonization lies in the art of concealing truth in plain sight, often achieved through language manipulation and redefined meanings. When words are stripped of their original intent and given new definitions, their true essence gets lost. This distortion traps us in endless debates that often lead nowhere.
Language is a potent tool for communication, while definitions anchor the words we use. Our philosophies and ways of thinking are shaped by how we understand these words. Colonization often works by altering a group’s language or twisting the meaning of key terms. By disconnecting people from the origins of words, colonizers create narratives that serve their goals, all while using familiar words in a deceptive way.
We see this strategy in historical empires, from Babylon to Rome. After every conquest, the invaders altered the language to solidify their control. In seeking truth, it’s crucial to delve deeper and rediscover the original intent behind the words we use.
The Clash of Interpretation: Letter vs. Spirit
Understanding any subject requires aligning it with the spirit or intent behind it. In legal systems, for example, there’s a distinct difference between the letter of the law and its intended spirit. A society can unravel if those interpreting the law either misunderstand it or act in bad faith. Similarly, a word we often abuse due to misinterpretation is “love.”
The Weaponization of Love
“Love” may be one of the most misunderstood and misused words in modern society. It has been wielded to justify wars, break families, and even commit crimes. Through a distorted definition, love has become a tool of manipulation, corruption, and deceit.
Take the Oxford Dictionary’s definition: “a very strong feeling of liking and caring for somebody/something, especially a family member or friend.” Or consider ChatGPT’s definition: “an intense and profound emotional connection characterized by care, empathy, and deep affection toward another person or thing.” Both define love as a feeling or emotion that causes action. But what is the origin of this feeling?
Does love happen when we admire someone’s appearance or when we see something familiar like a dog with a specific color we adore? Why does passion fade after relationships begin? Does this mean love dies? If we don’t properly define love, it will continue to be exploited, trapping us in cycles of manipulation and misunderstanding.
Love: A Vision, Not a Feeling
Through introspection, I have come to believe that our society has fundamentally misunderstood love. I propose a new explanation: love is not a feeling; it evokes feelings. Love is the anticipation of a vision becoming reality, sparking the emotions that follow.
Let’s consider God as an example. Why does a perfect God care so much about flawed, corrupt humanity? What does He gain from our existence? If humanity vanished tomorrow, He would lose nothing, and no one could challenge Him. Yet, despite our imperfection, God loves us because of our potential.
God’s Love: A Vision for Humanity
God doesn’t love humanity as it is now—He loves us because He sees a future we cannot yet grasp. Inside each of us is the potential to grow into something divine. This potential, referred to by Christians as Christ, represents the fullness of God. When God looks at humanity, He sees this potential, not our current imperfections.
Everything God does—His kindness, forgiveness, discipline, and guidance—is an expression of love aimed at helping us realize this potential. His love is future-focused, rooted in the vision of what we can become, not who we are today.
Do We Love Ourselves?
While God clearly loves us, the more pressing question is: Do we love ourselves? If we have such a bright future, why do we resist it? Why do we reject the very path that leads to our true potential? It’s possible for someone to love us while we do not love ourselves.
To love God means to trust in His vision for us, submit to His guidance, and actively work toward that future. Similarly, when two people love each other, it’s not about the present—it’s about seeing a future together, bigger and brighter than the current reality. The journey toward that shared future fosters intimacy and deepens love.
The True Meaning of “I Love You”
When a man tells a woman, “I love you,” the critical question to ask is: What do you love about me? The answer should not be vague. It should reflect a vision of potential, an understanding that goes beyond the superficial. Does this person see something in you that’s worth nurturing, even if it’s not immediately obvious?
For love to be real, both parties must be willing to walk toward that vision together. The man should not fear your growth but should encourage it, excited to see you become the best version of yourself. On the other hand, you must love yourself enough to want to reach that potential.
Sadly, some people do not love themselves. They would rather stay stagnant, blaming others for their lack of growth, seeking pity instead of improvement. Why? Because it’s easier to stay the same than to strive for something greater.
The Barriers to Self-Love
Traits like hatred, anger, and bitterness are signs of a lack of self-love. These emotions cloud our vision and lead to destructive behaviors, both in ourselves and our relationships. True self-love requires us to confront these vices, allowing us to grow and form meaningful connections.
If someone claims to love you but does not see a greater future for you, their love is empty. Likewise, if you’re unwilling to grow and work toward that future, you cannot honestly claim to love them back. Intimacy and love are built on a shared vision and the daily effort to achieve it.
The Misinterpretation of Love in Society
Many people misunderstand love, especially when they see others walking in love. They focus on the visible sacrifices—kindness, patience, care—without understanding the vision that sustains those actions. This misunderstanding leads to manipulation, where people demand superficial expressions of love without grasping its true depth.
Love does not demand; it nurtures. Those who walk in love can face any challenge because they’re driven by a vision larger than themselves.
The Foundation of Love: Vision and Trust
At its core, love is built on trust, and trust is built on vision. Without a shared vision, love cannot grow. This vision does not have to be romantic or erotic, as many might assume. True love transcends gender and societal expectations, creating deep connections between individuals who believe in each other’s potential.
It’s essential to remember that love, in its purest form, has nothing to do with sexuality. When someone says, “I love you,” the right response should be, “What future do you see in me?”
Conclusion: The Journey of True Love
In the end, love is not just a feeling. It’s a journey toward a shared future based on mutual vision and trust. If we cannot love ourselves enough to strive toward that future, we can never truly love someone else. Love demands growth, self-awareness, and a willingness to walk the path of intimacy. Without these, the word “love” is just another tool for manipulation, its true meaning lost in the noise of a world that has forgotten what love really is.
Femi Ogunleye is the founder of The HUBU Team, the author of The HUBU Journals. He is passionate about restoring values, morals and principles in the lives of people.
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