I'm not sure where to put this, but here goes... Where is the line between loving someone and being in love with them? What does that look like?

[awkward_author]

[AmandaYVR]

So, reading your exchange with Bri, and knowing a tad more about your situation, here is what I would say: (and this is a very rough, impromptu definition which I am making up on the fly here)

Loving someone is really appreciating them... for who they are, and maybe also there's a factor of how they treat you (which is well) so there's a respect, but more than just respect. You really like them. More than like them though.

Being 'in love' is more intense. It is probably almost all-consuming. It's difficult to not think about them at times. It probably accompanies romantic feelings, feelings of wanting to be physically close to them, touching them, and maybe some sort of sex. But more significantly, affection. You feel great affection towards them, in a chemical sort of way. You feel buzzy in the body and head sometimes when thinking about them. It feels good, great, and like one of the joys of life to have them in your life, your orbit.

[Ez-Bri-Z]

For a non family member? Somewhere between I really care about this person and I can't see my life without them in it. ¹

If I love someone I care about them greatly and have a vested interest in their happiness and safety perhaps elevated beyond a random stranger or even general friend.

If I am IN love with someone, it means that I have a place in my heart for them and I need them there to feel whole.


¹ this rule is extended to family members if you live in Alabama (I'm joking)

[awkward_author]

I love your Alabama joke. My mom's been there, and she told me everyone looks related.

I'm trying to figure out the difference because I don't think I'm in love with my friend. I do, however, know I love her, and I just wanted to know where the line is. Also, if I've crossed it.

[Ez-Bri-Z]

It may be different how guys experience it, but like for me, my best friend in the whole wide world is like my sister from another mister. I love her dearly and would do anything she ever needed. I'm just not IN love with her. I have no romantic or physical desire to be with her sexually.

[awkward_author]

I don't think about her sexually. She's pretty perfect in general, though.

[Ez-Bri-Z]

Yeah then I dont think you've crossed a line yet, but she would most likely be the best to ask if you've ever made her uncomfortable in anyway if you suspect you have.

If you are worried just about crossing internal boundaries instead, then it sounds like you are ok.

[awkward_author]

Thank you.

[Ez-Bri-Z]

You are most welcome.

[Avicenna]

It’s the same, except thexdecond implies romantic love

[awkward_author]

What does that feel like?

[Avicenna]

There’s no better feeling in this world

[awkward_author]

Can you describe it?

[MountAverage]

You'll find out eventually.

[Anonymous]

yessssssssss

[Opinion Owner]

both are Almost Similar

[Opinion Owner]

[awkward_author]

I have a friend, and I love her. I don't think I'm, necessarily, in love with her... I would do almost anything for her because she's my best friend.