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18 quotes about love being a journey (the beginning, middle & end).

These quotes about love are a tribute to you and all the ways you choose to love, even when it’s hard… whenever you can. It's all a practice and a path, and you make love your priority one decision, one breath at a time.

This thing called life on earth? We’re in it together. And it’s not easy, which is why it’s best to go hand in hand, one step at a time. Love: it’s how we make it through .

18 Quotes about Love Being a Journey

1. “Your task is not to see for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.” – Rumi

2. “Our real journey in life is interior; it is a matter of growth, deepening, and of an ever greater surrender to the creative action of love and grace in our hearts. Never was it more necessary to respond to that action.” – Thomas Merton

3. “Love doesn’t just sit there, like a stone; it has to be made, like bread; remade all the time, made new.” – Ursula LeGuin

4. “The art of love is largely the art of persistence.” – Albert Ellis

5. “Love is the spirit that motivates the artist’s journey.” – Eric Maisel

6. “Being driven is not the same as being passionate. Passion is a love for the journey. Drive is a need to reach the destination.” – Simon Sinek

7. “Life is short and we have never too much time for gladdening the hearts of those who are travelling the dark journey with us. Oh be swift to love, make haste to be kind.” – Henri Frederic Amiel

6. “To love yourself is a never-ending journey.” – Oprah Winfrey

9. “Life is a journey and it’s about growing and changing and coming to terms with who and what you are and loving who and what you are.” – Kelly McGillis

10. “To fall in love is easy, even to remain in it is not difficult; our human loneliness is cause enough. But it is a hard quest worth making to find a comrade through whose steady presence one becomes steadily the person one desires to be.” – Anna Louise Strong

11. “I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.” – Leo Buscaglia

12. “Love is the beginning of the journey, its end, and the journey itself.” – Deepak Chopra

13. “Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we learn. The spiritual journey is the unlearning of fear and prejudices and the acceptance of love back in our hearts. Love is the essential reality and our purpose on earth. To be consciously aware of it, to experience love in ourselves and others, is the meaning of life. Meaning does not lie in things. Meaning lies in us.” – Marianne Williamson

14. “Love cannot be forced, love cannot be coaxed or teased. It comes out of heaven, unasked and unsought.” – Pearl S. Buck

15. “Love is meant to be an adventure.” – Gordon B. Hinckley

16. “We can only learn to love by loving.” – Iris Murdoch

17. “Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family.” – Thomas S. Monson

18. “This itself is the whole of the journey, opening your heart to that which is lovely.” – Buddha

Which of these quotes about love is your favorite?

Tell me in the comments. I read every single one, and I’d love to know!

P.S. Make love a daily decision and get my book, Morning Affirmations: 200 Phrases for an Intentional and Openhearted Start to Your Day . It’ll be easier to enjoy the little things, give without feeling depleted, and keep your calm. And your life… it’ll be better.

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Journey of Love 18+ review: Plenty to laugh and think about

Love and politics form the core of Arun D Jose's new film 'Journey of Love 18+', which released in theatres on Friday. The movie, like his previous outing 'Jo and Jo', has a generous mix of humour, some of which is truly enjoyable, though it sometimes falls short of the hilarity in 'Jo and Jo', that was a simpler tale of sibling quarrels. 

Though the treatment remains the same, 18+ essentially tries to go a little more deeper by exploring the risks of attempting to tie the knot when one is too young. Akhil (Naslen) is a Left-wing worker who is in love with the local secretary Raveendran (Manoj K U)'s daughter. Their marriage is a strict no-no since Akhil's family members were Raveendran's labourers.

Since a proper marriage is out of question, Akhil along with his cronies devise a plan for him to run away with his lover. What happens next forms the crux of the story. The makers have thrown in some interesting dialogues, party politics and small twists, which ensures the movie is engrossing.

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The events in the first half are clearly more exciting than those in the second half, which do not keep pace with the scenes prior to the interval.

The post-marriage scenario felt like it was stretched a little too long. 

The court scene, however, was a perfect balance of humour and realism, giving the viewers much to think about. There are no loud arguments, nor any heart-rending scenarios. In fact, the lawyers hardly make any arguments, yet the scenes make sense. Kudos to Arun and his team for trying to bring up an interesting matter in court.

Though Nikhila Vimal only has a guest appearance, it definitely adds to the humour. The makers have given Mathew Thomas an interesting entry and exit in the film. He does not have the usual combo scenes with Naslen, which is a refreshing change.

Manoj as the local secretary and a father to a grown-up daughter leaves an impression on the audience. Meenakshi Dhinesh, who has previously worked in films like 'Porinju Mariyam Jose' and 'Iratta', also delivers a good performance as Akhil's girlfriend. The two share a good chemistry onscreen. YouTuber Saaf Bros, who is known for his unique content, nails his role as one of Akhil's friends.

Overall, the film has a good, youthful vibe. However, it is not as free-flowing as it's predecessors of the same genre, like 'Thanneer Mathan Dinangal', among others.

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Home » Review » Journey of Love 18+ review: A few hilarious moments and an engaging screenplay make this Naslen flick a decent one-time watch »

Journey of Love 18+ review: A few hilarious moments and an engaging screenplay make this Naslen flick a decent one-time watch

Despite its familiar template, Naslen and Meenakshi's Journey of Love 18+ succeeds in becoming a light-hearted comedy

• Raymond John

Last Updated: 10.57 PM, Jul 07, 2023

Story: Akhil, a polytechnic dropout and ardent supporter of the communist party, falls in love with Athira, daughter of a prominent Left political leader around that area. However their relationship faces opposition from Athira's family, trying to expatriate her. Determined to be together, Akhil and Athira decide to elope and get married with the help of Rajesh, who also has a history of eloping.The couple's plan is further complicated by the fact that they live in a village dominated by the party of Athira's father. With the assistance of his friends, Akhil embarks on a mission to marry Athira with numerous challenges on his path.

Review: Director Arun D Jose, of Jo and Jo fame, once again delves into the world of adolescent minds with his latest film Journey of Love 18+. While the movie maintains a light humorous tone throughout, it deals with certain serious elements like teenage love, politics, caste and elopement. Similar to his previous film, 18+ has subtle political commentary while evolving as a fun comedy-drama.

The film focuses on early love marriages, which is often viewed as unwise by conventional society. Despite following a familiar template, with the story of two youngsters from different family backgrounds falling in love and being discouraged by their families, the director succeeds in crafting the film in an engaging way.

Along with the characters, the political atmosphere of the area where they are placed is also consequential in this film. Set in North Kerala, the film highlights the influence of political parties in the daily lives of the people in the area. We can see flags and slogans of a Left party in most of its scenes. Despite its ideologies being against conventional establishments, it doesn't support Akhil and Athira's relationship.

In Jo and Jo, Arun dealt with the anxieties and confusions in the minds of youngsters during their adolescent phase and their relationships. But in 18+, the story is about how the actions and decisions of the two youngsters have an impact on the larger society.

The first half of the movie is slightly better than the latter, but the climax deserves applause as the makers chose not to appease a particular group of audience. Most of the dialogues that were intended to evoke humour work well and the actors play a huge part in making this film a fun ride. In fact, the performances save the film whenever the script has nothing new up its sleeve. Naslen, in his first outing as a solo lead, does justice to his role. Mathew, who plays a young hardcore Party acolyte, gets to carry a serious face throughout the movie, unlike his usual naivete. Though Naslen and Mathew don't share a lot of screen space, they do have a few memorable moments

The female lead Meenakshi plays her role exceptionally well, with the court scenes in the end being the standout. Safvan and Anshid, known for their content on social media content, seamlessly essay their characters that seem tailor made for them. Binu Pappu, Nikhila Vimal and Manoj KU were convincing and the part played by Rajesh Madhavan was also entertaining.

Songs by Christo Xavier sync well with the movie, which has decent visuals by Satheesh Kurup and crisp edits by Chaman Chakko.

Verdict: Journey of Love 18+ makes for a good one-time watch, thanks to its good performances and humour.

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Journey of Love 18+ trailer: Naslen K Gafoor, Mathew Thomas star in a light-hearted take on elopement

Journey of love 18+ stars naslen k gafoor, mathew thomas, and meenakshi in the lead roles. the film will be released in july..

It takes a special talent to tackle something as serious as elopement in a light-hearted film–one that works–and director Arun D Jose of Jo and Jo fame has got it. With his touch, a sensitive subject like lovers eloping, which has become more volatile since the advent of words like love jihad and drama love (nadaga kaadhal in Tamil Nadu), has turned into a fun-filled drama.

The trailer of Journey of Love 18+ pretty much lays out the story of the film, which is about the lead couple wanting to run away from home and get married. It starts off with a phone conversation where the girl asks the boy to take her somewhere. Both are unaware of the seriousness of the act they are about to commit, and that’s why the girl is more worried about the colour of the wedding saree amidst all the drama that ensues.

The trailer also shows glimpses of things turning violent and real. Nikhila Vimal is seen as a lawyer in a blink-you-will-miss scene.

Here’s the trailer:

Journey of Love 18+ stars Naslen K Gafoor, Mathew Thomas, Meenakshi, Binu Pappu, and Saaf Bros in pivotal roles. The film will be released in July.

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How I Found My Soulmate, Part 1: My Journey in Love

• by Celes     |    
• Filed in Love , Relationships
• , About Celes

This is part 1  of my 7-part series where I share my love journey, how I met my soulmate, and how you can attract authentic love as well.

• Part 1 :  My Journey in Love
• Part 2 :  Meeting My Husband (Someone I Knew From Before)
• Part 3 :  Addressing My Inner Demons
• Part 4 :  How I Realized My Husband Is The One For Me
• Part 5 :  How My Husband Realized I Am The One For Him (And Your Questions For Him, Answered)
• Part 6 :  10 Steps To Attract Authentic Love
• Part 7 :  How To Know When You Have Found ‘The One’: 8 Questions To Consider

Ken and I in Glasgow (Photo from our Glasgow Engagement Shoot )

(Posted on Sep 11, 2013; Updated in 2021)

Many of you have been asking me, since I got attached and subsequently engaged , how I met my fiancé Ken. Some of you want to know how we got together, while some of you asked how we knew with such certainty that we are the ones for each other — within a month no less. ( Update May 2014 : We are now married !)

Initially I wanted to hold off sharing the story of how we met till closer to our wedding, because I didn’t want people to diminish my message as we have not been together long.

But the truth is that even though Ken and I have not been together long, it feels like we’ve known each other all along. For some reason, we are able to connect with each other on a very deep level, in a way I’ve not been able to do with anyone else in my life. If soulmates means two souls having an unexplainable affinity for each other be it mentally, physically, emotionally, or spiritually, then that’s what we are to each other — soulmates, on all levels.

I’m excited to share my love story because I want to inspire all of you who are seeking love or have yet to find love. Whether you are single or attached, I hope this will give you hope about love. In this series, I will share the story of how we met, got attached, and realized that we are the ones for each other.

My Journey in Love (Up Till I Was 28)

I’ve already shared parts of my love journey on the blog before. From my longstanding singlehood , to my past heartbreak , to my experience with a dating agency , these are all part of my love journey.

But to give you guys a complete picture, up until I got attached to Ken, I was single for the first 28 years of my life.

I grew up in a household where my parents staunchly ruled that I wasn’t allowed to see anyone until I graduated. When I say “graduated,” I mean graduating from university at the age of 22. While I never gave their opinions second thought, I believe their staunch and negative views on this topic made me subconsciously devalue my desire to be with someone.

I had a couple of relationships when I was in secondary school, but they were very short-term — each lasting no more than a couple of weeks. They were so insignificant and juvenile that I wouldn’t even regard them as relationships.

When I was in university, I liked someone (as I have shared in my moving on series , regarding G). It didn’t work out  and I was left crushed, taking years to mend my broken heart thereafter.

(Of course it all worked out in the end because I eventually met Ken, my real soulmate , but more on that later. Thinking back, G was not a true compatible match because had we gotten together, I would never have evolved to who I am today; he would also not be a fit for the person I’ve become.)

I grew up very career-driven and achievement-oriented. To me relationships come and go, but personal achievements and career, these stick forever. Seeing couples part ways after three, five, ten, or even more years simply reinforced to me the transient nature of relationships and that I shouldn’t invest too heavily in something that wouldn’t last. (I later realized that this belief isn’t true and had limited me from getting attached.)

Never Been in a Serious Relationship Before

Even though I had never been in a serious relationship before, it wasn’t because I wasn’t appealing enough or I lacked male attention.

On my appeal, I used to think that I wasn’t  pretty ,  thin , or feminine enough to attract a good guy but I later realized that this wasn’t true and I was simply carrying very negative, limiting views of myself. I wrote about my revelations in The Beauty of Self – Why I Used To Feel Inferior about My Looks ,  How I Began To Love My Body  (series), and  How I Found My Place as a Female in Today’s World (series).

On attention from guys, I had male attention, but things just never worked out. It was always either that the guy wasn’t a match or that I had some interest but the guy didn’t follow up. I went on dates, but nothing ever came out of them. I usually concluded that we weren’t compatible and would do the fade-away thing (which I later realized wasn’t very nice when I experienced that myself).

I wanted to be with someone but I didn’t see the point of being in a relationship for the sake of it. I wanted to be with someone I truly liked and saw a future with, rather than just get together with some guy I didn’t feel strongly for.

Wondering if there was anyone out there for me

There were often times when I wondered if there was anyone out there for me at all. I would have lengthy chats with friends as we lamented about love and life, but my end conclusion would be that I, or anyone for that matter, had to remain hopeful. Whether or not there was someone for me, having a negative mindset wasn’t going to help me  find love . I had to believe there is a special someone out there for everyone, and it is by being positive and being my best self that I would attract that person, whoever he might be.

Dipping my toes into dating: Jun 2011 to Early 2012

When I was 27, between June 2011 and early 2012, I began to dip my toes into dating/love. During this time, I went on a solo seven-month trip around Europe/U.S. for work and to meet new people and experience new cultures. I thought I wasn’t getting younger, so it was really time to get out there and meet people.

I met a huge number of people, and even met a couple of relationship potentials in the process. But things didn’t work out, and I was very hurt in one of the cases. I simply moved on after that, having learned how to move on consciously from the G saga (as I shared in my heartbreak series ). Each experience helped me learn more about what I was looking for and I looked forward to whoever I was meeting next.

Serious Dating Immersion: Jul-Dec 2012

Then in June 2012 as I turned 28, I decided to give romance a serious stab. No more “dipping my toe in the water” but seriously going deep into the ocean and full-on swimming.

There were a few reasons.

• Work-wise, I was in a very good place, receiving over a million pageviews a month on PE and getting ongoing media coverage . I wanted to pursue my personal goals, such as romance.
• I was happy with the other areas in my life wheel , such as health and fitness (I had cleaned up my diet over the years and was exercising regularly), contribution (I was giving value to the society daily through PE), friendships (I was surrounded by positive, like-minded people), family (my relationship with my parents was better than before), and personal growth (I was more conscious than I had ever been).

I felt that I was living my most purposeful life ever and it was time to take things to the next level by working on the one area I had not actualized yet — love. I felt that I owed it to myself to give love a serious stab because truth be told, I had been putting love on hold all my life. I would always pretend that I wasn’t interested in love or say I was busy working when deep down, I really wanted to meet my special someone .

I felt that it was high time to put myself out there, date, and seriously explore entering into a relationship with someone. And what better time to do it than now, given that I was 28? I thought,  Whatever comes out of this is out of my control, but the most important thing is to put my best foot forward.

• Arranged dating. In July 2012, I joined a dating agency (they sponsored my dating package while I wrote about my date experience). I figured I would not rely on them to get dates, but simply to use it as an extra channel to meet new people.
• Massive socializing and networking. I also started massively expanding my social circle. I joined entrepreneur networking and business events since they were in line with my interests and would help me with my work. I also felt that meeting people in such environments was the best way to showcase the real me, since work is a huge part of my life.
• Dating events. I became open to dating activities like singles events — a first since I would put them down as silly and awkward in the past. My good friend, W, is single and joins singles events occasionally, so I would join him when I was free.
• With friends. I let others know I was open to dating and told them to set me up on a date. I also constantly checked with friends and acquaintances if they had upcoming events I could join. Whenever people invited me to house parties, networking events, talks, etc., I would join in. To me, these were all opportunities to meet new people, on top of attending for the event itself.
• To guys who asked me out. On a personal level, I became open to date invitations. When guys asked me out, I would accept their dates unless I really had no interest. This was a far cry from the past, when I would turn down almost every guy for the most whimsical reason. (The latter is a terminalistic approach, something I share in 10 Steps To Attract Authentic Love .)

Dating Spree – A Memorable Experience

So for the next six months, I went on more dates than I had ever gone on in my entire life . Actually, I went on more dates than most of my peers went on in their entire lives (before getting attached). I could easily be on three to four dates a week, sometimes with pretty eligible men. If I had deprived myself in the area love/romance early on in my life, I had my fill of dates and dating stories in this period.

As if the law of attraction was at work, guys would come out of the woodwork to ask me out — and these could be guys I already knew but never stayed in touch with. It was like I was putting out the intention to date, and the universe was helping to make that happen.

I even had  married guys hit on me, something which I disagree with. I would immediately reject them. Read more: What I Have Learned From Being Hit On by Married Men

During this period, I learned a lot about myself and what I was looking for in a relationship partner. While I have always had a good idea of what I’m looking for, this dating phase developed my awareness to a whole new level. I also learned how to be a better date and partner if I were to be with someone in the future.

However… Still Single in the End

While the guys I met in the six months were of increasing eligibility and compatibility, I still did wind up with anybody.

I went to three singles parties with W and they were not my thing. The crowd and vibes of the first two events didn’t gel with me, while the third event didn’t even take place — we went but no one showed up!

With the arranged dates by the dating agency, I realized after a couple of dates that I was meeting much more compatible guys through my own circles. To be fair, maybe their database didn’t have guys who would fit what I was looking for — after all, I am quite different from most females. Also, I am already widely socialized compared to the average person — their service would probably help those with limited social circles and have no time to meet people.

As for dates from my own network, there were some promising prospects, but these were not enough for me to want to enter into a relationship. Given that I was already 28 with a clear idea of my vision and values, I wanted to be with someone I could see a long-term future with. It wouldn’t be fair to enter into a relationship with someone and break up a few months later.

I felt like I was back to “square one” — back to being by myself after so many months of active dating. I felt disappointed, empty, and jaded. I felt like I was in limbo, circling round and round.

It would be a matter of time before a special someone would enter (actually, re-enter) my life.

Proceed to Part 2: Meeting My Husband (Someone I Knew From Before) , where I share the (re)entrance of someone I did not expect into my life.

(Images: Piggyback ride , Red heart , Yellow leaves , Girl alone , Smiling girl , Socializing , Girl with leaf on face )

Hi, I’m Celes. Thanks for reading. Personal Excellence is where I write about how to live our best life as we tackle life’s challenges. About Me »

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What Are the Elements of a Love Story: Uncovering the Core Components

By: Author Paul Jenkins

Posted on April 6, 2024

Categories Writing , Creativity , Inspiration

A love story captures the intense emotions and drama of human relationships, offering a narrative that delights, captivates, and often tugs at the heartstrings. The components that construct a compelling romance tale are at the heart of this genre.

Knowing how to write a love story means understanding these essential elements. The characters—often including a protagonist that readers can root for—face obstacles and navigate the uncertainties of love, creating a dynamic that keeps the pages turning.

The setting, plot, and overarching themes are woven with narrative techniques to tell a story that can cross centuries and cultural boundaries, from timeless classics to modern romances. Each love story offers a unique exploration of relationships, but all share common threads that resonate with readers.

Whether you’re a writer looking to pen your own love story or a reader simply curious about the genre’s mechanics, grasping the elements of love stories is where your understanding deepens.

Key Takeaways

• Recognizing essential elements is critical in writing an engaging love story.
• Characters and their emotional journey form the core of an impactful romance narrative.
• The setting and narrative techniques enrich the love story, giving it depth and relatability.

Characters and Archetypes

In love stories, the characters are the heart that pumps life into the narrative. You’ll meet various archetypes, from the protagonists who carry the bulk of the romance to the supporting cast that shapes their journey.

Protagonists and Love Interests

Your protagonists are the central figures of your love story. These characters, such as Elizabeth Bennet in “Pride and Prejudice,” navigate the complexities of romance and personal growth. The love interests often define the story’s arc as their relationship dynamics evolve from initial encounters to deep emotional connections.

Character Archetypes:

• The Idealist: Characters often embody youthful optimism or a driven quest for love.
• The Realist: Love interests who provide a grounded perspective or challenge the protagonist.

Antagonists and Rivals

The antagonist in your love story is not just a mere villain; sometimes, they are rivals or societal norms that stand in the way of the protagonist’s happiness. These characters provide tension and conflict to push the story forward and deepen the romance.

Character Roles:

• The Obstructing Rival: An individual competing for the affection of one of the lovers.
• The Social Antagonist: This could be societal expectations or family pressures that challenge the lovers’ union.

Supporting Characters: Friends and Family

Supporting characters , including friends and family, are your protagonist’s cheerleaders or cautionary voices contributing to their romantic journey. These characters often serve as sidekicks offering comic relief or sage advice influencing the protagonists’ choices in love.

Supporting Roles:

• The Confidant: A role often taken by a sibling or best friend where secrets and inner turmoil are shared.
• The Mentor: This character provides wisdom and guidance, helping to navigate the rocky roads of love.

Setting The Scene

Before diving into the intricacies of a love story, it’s essential to ground your narrative in a world that reflects the romance’s dynamics. The setting is more than just a backdrop; it establishes the time and place where your love story unfolds and the cultural and social context that shapes your characters’ experiences and worldviews.

Time and Place

The setting’s time and place give your love story its unique flavor. Imagine the misty moors in Jane Eyre , where the foggy landscape mirrors the mystery and emotional turmoil of the romance. Alternatively, consider the glittering New York society in The Age of Innocence , where opulence sets the stage for a tale of love constrained by societal expectations. Your story might not roam across such expansive settings, but even the time of day or year can infuse a scene with mood and meaning.

• Example: In The Notebook , the WWII era adds a layer of urgency and sweeping fate to the love story.
• When choosing your time and place , think about how these elements will influence the love story you’re crafting.

Cultural and Social Context

Your love story’s cultural and social contexts can offer challenges or support to your characters’ romance. In Pride and Prejudice, the strict social structures and emphasis on marriage for status rather than love create a hurdle for Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy. Reflect on the societal norms and worldviews that are at play in your story. Are your lovers defying their social status quo, or does it shape them?

• Consider: How does the social landscape impact interpersonal dynamics in your tale?
• Remember: Every detail, from fashion to dialogue, should reflect the time’s culture and contribute to the authenticity of your setting.

Your setting isn’t just a stage for characters to walk across; it’s a dynamic and influential aspect of your love story that can heighten conflict, shape character development, and emphasize themes. Use the time and place alongside the cultural and social context to deepen the emotional resonance and elevate the stakes of your narrative.

Plot and Structure

In crafting a love story, the plot structure is your foundational blueprint. It guides how your characters’ romance blossoms from the spark of the initial encounter to the satisfying—or sometimes bittersweet—conclusion.

Inciting Incident and Meet-Cute

The inciting incident is where the magic begins in a love story. It’s that pivotal moment when your characters meet for the first time, often through a charming or whimsical scenario known as the meet-cute . This encounter sets your lovers on a path filled with romantic potential and lays the groundwork for their emotional journey.

• Accidentally swapping coffee orders.
• A mistaken identity encounter

Rising Action and Obstacles

As your tale progresses, the rising action comprises the developing romance, subject to obstacles. These challenges are crucial for building tension and ensuring your readers stay engaged, rooting for the couple to overcome them. Obstacles can range from misunderstandings to external threats to the relationship.

• Personal insecurities
• External disapproval or societal constraints

Climax and Resolution

The climax is the turning point where the tension peaks, often featuring a grand gesture or a significant twist that tests the love story’s strength. Following the climax, your story should glide towards a resolution or ending , where the characters’ arcs culminate, and the relationship’s future becomes clear.

• Confronting the main obstacle
• A decision that defines the future of the relationship

Whether your tale ends with hearts united or a love lesson learned, ensure your ending stays true to the spirit of your story and satisfies your readers’ investment in the characters’ journey.

Themes and Emotional Threads

In exploring the tapestry of a love story , you’ll encounter recurring themes and emotional undercurrents that resonate with your experience of love and relationships. These thematic elements drive the narrative forward and impart meaningful lessons about the complexities of human emotions.

Love and Relationship Growth

Growth in a relationship is often the heart of a love story. Your journey through the narrative will show characters overcoming emotional threads that test the strength and depth of their love. At times, it manifests through overcoming personal insecurities or societal expectations, leading to a stronger bond between the characters.

Conflict and Resolution

Love stories thrive on conflict —both internal and external . You might find characters wrestling with internal doubts or forbidden love , whereas external obstacles like disapproving families or societal norms add tension. Noteworthy is the conflict resolution, where characters reconcile differences or defy the odds to nurture their love, creating a satisfying conclusion.

Morality and Lessons Learned

Enduring a love story often imparts significant moral lessons. You’re likely to reflect on the morality of the character’s choices and the repercussions of their actions. Relationships can mirror your values, and by navigating through the protagonists’ decisions, you learn lessons about love , betrayal, and the importance of integrity.

Narrative Tools and Techniques

When you write a love story, your narrative tools and techniques are the building blocks that shape how your audience will experience the romance. From the point of view you choose to the language and humor you weave into the narrative, each element plays a crucial role in heightening the romantic tension and drawing readers in.

Point of View and Tension

The point of view (POV) you select greatly influences how your readers engage with your characters and their love story. A first-person POV allows you to delve deeply into your protagonist’s feelings and thoughts, creating intimacy with the reader. On the other hand, a third-person POV can provide a broader perspective, adding layers of tension by revealing insights and actions unknown to the main characters.

• First-Person POV : “I felt my heart race as…”
• Third-Person POV : “She was oblivious to the fact that…”

Language and Humor

The language you use will set the tone for the love story. Descriptive and emotive language can paint vivid pictures and stir emotions, making the highs of romance soar, and the lows feel heart-wrenching. Humor is a light touch that can make characters more relatable and endearing. When used sparingly, it’s a tool that can also diffuse tension and keep the narrative from becoming overly dramatic.

• Descriptive Language: “His eyes sparkled like…”
• Humor: “She let out a laugh that sounded more like a…”

Romantic Tension and Obstacles

Romantic tension is the fuel that drives a love story forward. It’s a performance, with each element meticulously placed to keep your readers rooting for the characters against all obstacles. Whether it’s societal norms, personal doubts, or external threats, these obstacles create the conflict necessary to keep your readers on the edge of their seats.

• External Obstacles: “Their families were like two colliding…”
• Internal Doubts: “She second-guessed the flicker of warmth in her…”

By harnessing these narrative tools and techniques, you command the pace and flow of your love story, crafting an experience that can captivate your readers from the first page to the last.

The Evolution of Romance

As you explore romance literature, you’ll discover that this genre is rich in variety and has undergone significant changes. Romance novels have evolved to meet the tastes and expectations of their audience, incorporating ever-changing themes and subgenres.

Subgenres and Conventions

The romance novel has sprawled into numerous subgenres , each with unique conventions. For example, historical romances take you on journeys through time, while paranormal romances introduce supernatural elements and creatures. Contemporary romances, on the other hand, reflect modern-day settings and issues.

• Historical Romance: Often set before 1950, it revolves around the social customs of the time.
• Paranormal Romance : Features fantasy or supernatural elements.
• Contemporary Romance : Takes place post-1950 and relates to current times.

The conventions followed within these subgenres can include the destined lovers’ first meeting, the inevitable obstacles they face, and the climactic resolution leading to a happily ever after.

Modern Challenges and Diverse Narratives

Romance today faces the challenge of inclusivity , and the genre answers with ever more diverse narratives. These novels are shifting to reflect various cultural, sexual, and gender identities, thus broadening appeal and representation. References to this shift can be seen in articles hosted by the New York Public Library . Notably, modern romances may address societal issues or present atypical protagonists, pushing the boundaries of traditional genre conventions.

• Cultural Diversity : Features characters of different ethnic backgrounds.
• LGBTQ+ Narratives : Centralizes queer love stories.
• Issues in Modern Society : Addresses challenges like mental health or disability.

As you navigate through the wide world of romance, your understanding of the genre will deepen, and you might find yourself drawn to the specific tropes and storytelling methods that define each subgenre.

Writing and Publishing Perspectives

In bringing a love story to life, you must craft a narrative that resonates with readers and navigate the complex path to publication. Let’s explore how to write moving romance writing and the steps to get your novel into the hands of eager readers.

Writing a Compelling Love Story

To pen a love story that captures hearts, your focus should be creating genuine emotions and conflicts. High stakes are crucial, as they compel the reader to root for the characters’ happiness. Feature character archetypes that readers adore, yet ensure they have enough depth to seem real.

Your plot should include obstacles that test the love between characters, making their eventual union all the more satisfying. Use familiar tropes creatively to establish a connection with your audience, but strive to give them a fresh twist to stand out.

Employ a writing perspective that best serves your story, whether the introspective depth of first-person or the broader scope of third-person. If you are uncertain which perspective to use, consider the intimacy you wish to create in the reader’s romance experience.

Navigating the Publishing World

Once your book is written, your focus shifts to the publishing world. With platforms like Amazon, self-publishing your novels has never been easier, offering you a way to reach readers globally. However, it’s essential to understand the nuances of self-publishing, like the importance of a professional cover, well-crafted book description, and strategic pricing.

Suppose you prefer traditional publishing, research agents, and publishers specializing in romance writing. A compelling query letter and a well-polished manuscript are your tickets to gaining the attention of these gatekeepers. Remember, the road to publication can be long, but persistence and a passion for how to write a love story are key to seeing your book on shelves.

Seminal Works and Influences

You’ll find that the landscape of love stories is rich with seminal works that have not only stood the test of time but also continue to influence contemporary narratives. From the romantic tension of Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy in classic literature to modern portrayals of love that challenge traditional norms, each story offers unique insights into the complexities of love.

Classic Romance Novels

Jane Austen set a precedent for romantic literature with the witty and spirited courtship between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. This novel has shaped your understanding of tension and societal influence in romance.

Charlotte Brontë provided an intense gothic romance with deep psychological elements through the relationship between Jane Eyre and Mr. Rochester, introducing you to the strong-willed heroine and the tormented hero.

Wharton’s poignant tales like Ethan Frome and the Pulitzer Prize-winning

a glimpse into love constrained by societal pressures and personal circumstances.

Contemporary Influences

With Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook , you encounter a powerful story of enduring love that spans the trials of time, tugging at your heartstrings and setting a high bar for modern romantic narratives.

Annie Proulx’s Brokeback Mountain challenges the traditional boundaries of love with its raw and compelling account of a complex relationship between two cowboys, reshaping your perceptions of love and intimacy.

Toni Morrison’s Beloved introduces you to the heartbreaking depths of a mother’s love and its intertwining with pain, unforgiveness, and the desire for redemption, illustrating a different facet of love’s power.

Each of these works encapsulates distinct elements that define what love can look like and how it can drive a narrative. From classic to contemporary, the influences you see in love stories reveal changing attitudes and styles but always resonate with the core of human emotion—love.

Cultural Impact and Popularity

Love stories have been a staple in literature, resonating with you and reflecting cultural norms. These narratives often explore the complexity of attraction and passion , showing how beautiful and surprising heartbreak can be. In every corner of the world, love stories serve as a mirror for societal values about relationships.

Romance novels significantly impact society by shaping your perceptions of love and partnership. Critics have noted that they can set unrealistic expectations about romance, suggesting that finding the perfect partner should be effortless. Nevertheless, the allure of a well-told love story is undeniable, and their popularity indicates a deep human desire to experience and understand love .

For centuries, love stories have captivated your imagination. They aren’t just about the heartbreak or the happy endings ; they provide cultural commentary and evolve alongside society’s changing views on love and romance.

In many cultures, unforgettable love stories convey deep-seated ideologies, reflecting and sometimes shaping the behavior and mindset related to romantic relationships. Whether through the tragic or the triumphant, these tales have proven time and again to be a beautiful reflection of the human condition, as the cultural evaluation of love in literary history suggests.

The power of romance in literature is not just limited to mere entertainment. It can evoke strong emotions and provide a shared experience across different cultures. Various literary works show that your understanding and expression of love have evolved but remain an essential, universal experience.

Selecting the Perfect Title for Your Love Story

The journey of crafting a love story is both intimate and profound.

Once your narrative is shaped, encapsulating its essence in a fitting title becomes paramount. A great title not only piques interest but also reflects the soul of your story.

To aid you in this crucial step, we’ve compiled an extensive collection of creative and evocative title ideas at “Love Story Book Title Ideas” .

This carefully curated list is more than just suggestions—it’s a gateway to inspiration designed to help you discover that perfect title that resonates deeply with the themes and emotions woven throughout your love story.

50+ Amazing Journey Of Love Quotes That Will Make You Feel Better!

Last Updated on November 22, 2020 by Scott M. Thomas

This is a stunning writing about the journey of love quotes and sayings. 

Staying together year after year is not an easy task. It is not always possible to be together with the people you love. So the journey of love should always be enjoyed. That’s why here you’ll see some great quotes we’ve collected that you’ll love reading. Or you can use these as love captions. That way you can make your bond more beautiful and strong. Thanks.

“Love doesn’t just sit there, like a stone; it has to be made, like bread; remade all the time, made new.” – Ursula LeGuin

“The art of love is largely the art of persistence.” – Albert Ellis

“Love is the spirit that motivates the artist’s journey.” – Eric Maisel

“Being driven is not the same as being passionate. Passion is a love for the journey. Drive is a need to reach the destination.” – Simon Sinek

“Life is short and we have never too much time for gladdening the hearts of those who are travelling the dark journey with us. Oh be swift to love, make haste to be kind.” – Henri Frederic Amiel

“To love yourself is a never-ending journey.” – Oprah Winfrey

“Life is a journey and it’s about growing and changing and coming to terms with who and what you are and loving who and what you are.” – Kelly McGillis

“To fall in love is easy, even to remain in it is not difficult; our human loneliness is cause enough. But it is a hard quest worth making to find a comrade through whose steady presence one becomes steadily the person one desires to be.” – Anna Louise Strong

“Love is like a virus. It can happen to anybody at any time.” – Maya Angelou

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Watch your step.” – Thomas S. Monson

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a cash advance.” – Alton Brown

“It’s easy to fall in love. The hard part is finding someone to catch you.” – Bertrand Russell

“You don’t love someone for their looks, or their clothes, or for their fancy car, but because they sing a song only you can hear.” – Oscar Wilde

“Some beautiful paths can’t be discovered without getting lost.” – Erol Ozan

“Love is the beginning of the journey, its end, and the journey itself.” – Deepak Chopra

“Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we learn. The spiritual journey is the unlearning of fear and prejudices and the acceptance of love back in our hearts. Love is the essential reality and our purpose on earth. To be consciously aware of it, to experience love in ourselves and others, is the meaning of life. Meaning does not lie in things. Meaning lies in us.” – Marianne Williamson

“Love cannot be forced, love cannot be coaxed or teased. It comes out of heaven, unasked and unsought.” – Pearl S. Buck

“Love is meant to be an adventure.” – Gordon B. Hinckley

“We can only learn to love by loving.” – Iris Murdoch

“If you’re brave enough to leave behind everything familiar and comforting, which can be anything from your house to bitter, old resentments, and set out on a truth-seeking journey, either externally or internally, and if you are truly willing to regard everything that happens to you on that journey as a clue and if you accept everyone you meet along the way as a teacher and if you are prepared, most of all, to face and forgive some very difficult realities about yourself, then the truth will not be withheld from you.” – Elizabeth Gilbert

“Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family.” – Thomas S. Monson

“This itself is the whole of the journey, opening your heart to that which is lovely.” – Buddha

“Our battered suitcases were piled on the sidewalk again; we had longer ways to go. But no matter, the road is life.” – Jack Kerouac

“I have learned to live my life one step, one breath, and one moment at a time, but it was a long road. I set out on a journey of love, seeking truth, peace and understanding. I am still learning.” – Muhammad Ali

“Your task is not to see for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.” – Rumi

“Our real journey in life is interior; it is a matter of growth, deepening, and of an ever greater surrender to the creative action of love and grace in our hearts. Never was it more necessary to respond to that action.” – Thomas Merton

“If a hug represented how much I loved you, I would hold you in my arms forever.” – Unknown

“In any journey, more important than all the scenery and natural wonders, will be the people you will meet.” – Liviu Rebreanu

“I have loved you in infinite forms, infinite times and will love you forever.” – Unknown

“Don’t judge my path if you didn’t walk my journey.” – Unknown

“I love you neither with my heart, nor with my mind. My heart might stop, my mind can forget. I love you with my soul because my soul never stops or forgets.” – Rumi

“When setting out on a journey, do not seek advice from those who have never left home.” – Rumi 

“The water shines only by the sun. And it is you who are my sun.” – Charles de Leusse

“To lose balance sometimes for love is part of living a balanced life.” – Elizabeth Gilbert

“I’m not afraid of my death, I’m afraid of losing loved ones.” – Efrat Cybulkiewicz

“Embark on the journey of LOVE. It takes you from yourself to yourself.” – Rumi

“All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware.” – Martin Buber

For you – 37 Amazing Angry Love Quotes

Our Journey Of Love Quotes

“The minute I heard my first love story, I started looking for you, not knowing how blind that was. Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere. They’re in each other all along.” – Rumi

“There is a madness in loving you, a lack of reason that makes it feel so flawless.” – Leo Christopher

“Let’s make this lovely journey last for a lifetime, do not ever let me go. I am yours as long as you want me to.” – Unknown

“Our journey isn’t perfect but it’s ours. I’ll stick with you ’till the end.” – Unknown

“I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.” – Leo Buscaglia

“The minute I heard my first love story, I started looking for you.” – Rumi

“There is only one royal road for the spiritual journey…Love.” – Sathya Sai Baba

“I’ve learned two things in my life. One that love is the beginning and end of all meaning. And two that it is the same thing whatever shape our souls have taken on this journey. Love is love. Is love.” – Clive Barker

“Lovers don’t finally meet somewhere. They’re in each other all along.” – Rumi

“It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters, in the end.” – Ursula K. Le Guin

“Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” – Terry Pratchett

“Do not follow where the path may lead.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” – Terry Pratchett

“I swear I couldn’t love you more than I do right now, and yet I know I will tomorrow.” – Leo Christopher

“The journey of love has been rather a lacerating, if well-worth-it, journey.” – D. H. Lawrence

Recommended for you –

51 Amazing Comic Book Love Quotes For Comic Lovers ,

The Best 60+ How Much Do You Love Me Quotes For Lovers

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How to Write the Couple’s ‘Love Story’ for a Wedding Officiant Script (With Examples)

Published Monday, May. 29th, 2023

Written by Jessica Levey

Learn how to write a couple’s love story for a personalized wedding officiant script with this simple advice, including examples from real wedding scripts written by real officiants. A great wedding ceremony script tells a story!

A great wedding ceremony script tells a story! Follow these simple instructions to write a personalized custom wedding script…

Listen now: 

T he best wedding ceremonies tell a story, grabbing the guest’s attention and making them feel like they’re a part of the couple’s journey together. 

Professional wedding officiants sometimes call this telling a couple’s ‘love story.’ During the marriage ceremony, they describe the course of a couple’s relationship over time, from the first meeting, to falling in love, to the wedding day. 

A good story helps set the mood of the wedding, reminds the couple of the memories they’ve made together, how their love has deepened with time, and shares a few key moments from their journey with their wedding guests.  

As a wedding officiant, it’s your job to tell this story in a thoughtful and authentic way, and to give the couple and their love a ‘voice’ as they celebrate their marriage to each other.  

If you already know the couple well, you can draw from your experiences with them: conversations you’ve had, shared vacations, and other meaningful moments. You should also meet with the couple to ask questions about their relationship and what it means to them, so that you can share their story in their own words. 

Related: Officiant Training: Tips for Personalizing a Wedding Ceremony

We’ve put together a list of suggestions below to help you write a memorable love story, including a few sample questions to get you and your couple talking, followed by three love story examples written by real officiants, for real couples and real weddings.

When does the officiant tell a couple’s love story during the ceremony? 

The couple’s love story is usually told during the first half of the wedding ceremony, during a section called the ‘invocation.’ It can be just a few sentences long, or longer. The invocation begins after everyone has walked down the aisle, guests have been welcomed, and the purpose of the gathering is announced. 

Learn more here: The Invocation Explained

(You’ve probably heard an officiant say, “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of…” That’s the start of the invocation, and is the officiant’s first official speaking part. The love story will come during this portion of the wedding.)

Photo:   Leonardo Miranda / Unsplash

5 Tips to Write the Couple’s ‘Love Story’ for a Wedding Ceremony 

1. gather information about the couple and their relationship.

Meet with the couple to talk to them about their relationship and what it means to them, what they love about each other, their favorite memories, challenges they’ve overcome as a couple, and their plans for the future. Try to capture these details in the couple’s own words for the ceremony. 

A few questions you might ask: 

• How did you meet? 
• What were your first impressions? 
• How has your relationship changed and evolved over time? 
• What are your favorite memories together?
• What challenges have you overcome, and how were you stronger as a couple? 
• What does marriage mean to you? 
• What are your plans for the future?

2. Consider the audience

Consider who will be attending the wedding, and make sure the story you share is appropriate for the audience. Don’t share details that will embarrass the couple or make important guests uncomfortable. Weddings are a personal celebration but they’re also a public event, so make sure your version of the couple’s love story is the right fit for this particular crowd. (You can always save the scandalous bits for the reception and afterparty.)

Related:   Writing Tips: It’s Personal… Putting the “You” into a Wedding Ceremony

3. Think about a ‘story arc’

Even the simplest stories follow a tried-and-true pattern – with a beginning, middle, and end. Keep this natural flow of time and events in mind as you choose which details to include while telling the couple’s love story: How they met, how they felt then, how the relationship deepened, what they love about each other now, plans for the future. 

Include memories that build feelings of excitement, suspense, triumph, romance, and anticipation for the future… the ingredients of a compelling story! 

Related: Write a Wedding Ceremony Using a Classic Story Arc

4. Make some edits

Once you’ve written the couple’s love story and figured out how to fit it into the rest of your wedding ceremony script, take some time to read it out loud and make some edits. 

Related: Wedding Ceremony Outline & Order : Understanding the Parts of a Wedding Ceremony

Consider the tone of the story and how well it fits with the rest of the ceremony. Think about length, timing, the audience, and how the couple might feel hearing it on their wedding day. Then, make adjustments as needed. 

5. Remember, this isn’t the end of the story

Remember, this love story isn’t over yet! The wedding day is the start of a new chapter. Leave the story open ended by describing the couple’s plans and dreams for the future. 

Photo:   Ellie Cooper / Unsplash

Every couple has a unique story and personality! Give them a 'voice' during the wedding ceremony by crafting an authentic and unique officiant speech.

Examples of Love Stories from Real Wedding Ceremony Scripts

Use these three examples of love stories from real weddings for inspiration as you get started.

Example One: Nic & Lauren’s Love Story

This love story was included in the officiant’s wedding ceremony script after acknowledging the couple’s love and gratitude to their parents and siblings. Read the full wedding script by AMM Minister Pete “Aloha” Tingstrom to see how this story ‘flows’ in the ceremony: AMM Wedding Wall: Nic & Lauren Tie the Knot

“I like to learn about how the couple met… Nick and Lauren met at Boardriders on this day, May 1st, 2012, eleven years ago. 

She had been going there regularly looking for friends since she moved to Hawaii and was rebuilding her life. He hadn't gone out in a whole year. The first night he does go out – he met her!  

She told him she had a long drive back to Waiahole, he said “I have a great couch.” When she went to get his phone number, her phone died right in her hands. So she said, “I guess I am going with you now…” They talked all night, and she did not end up staying on the couch, wink wink. The rest is history.

Then on the 10 year anniversary of them meeting, they went on a hike into Jackass Ginger magical pine forest, and he proposed to her with several friends and hanai family present – it was so special.”

Example Two: Kaitlyn & Austin’s Love Story

This story was included in the officiant’s opening speech, right after he asked guests to silence their phones (an unplugged wedding) and welcomed them to the ceremony. Read the full wedding ceremony script by AMM Minister Michael to see the ceremony’s flow: The Wedding of Kaitlyn & Austin

“We are gathered here today to join Kaitlyn and Austin in marriage.

Little did they know when they met in middle school while at the beach on separate family vacations to the Outer Banks that they’d one day be here on this beautiful Saturday evening near another beach getting married. It’s an amazing story that came together after the mother of the bride suggested that Kaitlyn stay with Austin for safety reasons during Hurricane Irma… and it appears that Mother Knows Best. But I’ll let the Best Man tell the full story during the reception later.

The next chapter in that story begins today. Today begins a life of giving and sharing; of nurturing and support; of trust and commitment; allowing each other the freedom to grow and evolve as individuals while continuing to develop your mutual trust and love as this journey unfolds.

Today your family and friends gather to celebrate your union. We are privileged to witness two dear friends; two exceptional and driven individuals committed to share a lifetime together.”

Example Three: Javier & Jenn’s Love Story

This love story is included during the officiant’s opening words, right after she asks the couple to pause, and look around at everyone gathered to support them on their wedding day. Read the full wedding ceremony script by AMM Minister Regan to see how this custom ceremony captures the couple’s journey together: AMM Wedding Wall: Javier & Jenn’s Wedding

“What you’ve done to be here today took a lot of strength, patience, and love. You met in 2020, during a time when meeting new people and starting a relationship was almost unthinkable. At first, you shared messages and phone conversations back and forth for about a month. The connection was undeniable as you spent hours talking into the late hours of the night… and finally they had to meet.

As Jenn recalled their first date, she remembered that restaurants were just reopening. The plan was for her to go to, and I quote, “this strange man’s house,” and drive to BJ’s. When they got there, they were told they could only order out because there were RIOTS DOWN THE STREET. Basically, their first date was COVID restrictions, riots, BJs takeout, and Netflix.

I was the first person to hear about this eventful night… I look back on that conversation and how things were before Javier. [Jenn] was used to relationships being exciting and temporary, and when she found something that would last, her instinct was to run. It’s understandable because love can be scary when it’s true.

For Javier, Jenn came into his clean, organized life like a tornado. He described her as “different and fun with that raspy voice.” And it was different for him to receive her voice monologues instead of a regular text message. During one of her first visits to his home, she wasn’t aware of his OCD tendencies… Jenn is considered messy in comparison, however, he loves how she has the ability to tune into his feelings and then go above and beyond to bring him back to happiness when he’s feeling down.

You two were able to surpass challenges of that time and build a strong & lasting relationship. He taught Jenn that you can get through anything through communication… No matter how late it is in the night, you’re gonna talk it out. And she taught Javier the difference between the Pantages and the AMC. You also welcomed each other’s families, communities, and lifelong friends, and joined them together to build a new village.”

Read Next: 

• Funny Love Poems & Whimsical Wedding Readings for a Ceremony that’s YOU & Truer than True  
• Salt & Sage Love Smudge for a Lowkey Pagan Wedding Blessing  

A dash of ‘behind the scenes magic’ for your marriage celebration with this simple love smudge. Read the full article here. 

Lead Staff Writer & Illustrator

Jessica loves exploring the history and magic of ritual, the connections between people and places, and sharing true stories about love and commitment. She's an advocate for marriage equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and individuality, and is an ordained Minister with AMM. When she’s not writing or illustrating for AMM, she enjoys city hikes, fantasy novels, comics, and traveling.

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My Parenting Story… A Journal for Life, A Journey of Love

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Journey of Honor: A Love Story Paperback – August 1, 2010

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• Print length 209 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Granite
• Publication date August 1, 2010
• Dimensions 6.1 x 0.7 x 9 inches
• ISBN-10 1599360594
• ISBN-13 978-1599360591
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• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Granite (August 1, 2010)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 209 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1599360594
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1599360591
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 12.8 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.1 x 0.7 x 9 inches
• #6,205 in Religious Historical Fiction (Books)
• #15,553 in Christian Historical Fiction (Books)

About the author

Jaclyn m. hawkes.

Best selling author Jaclyn M. Hawkes grew up in Utah with 6 sisters, 4 brothers and any number of pets. (It was never boring!) She got a bachelor's degree, had a career and traveled extensively before settling down to her life's work of being the mother of four magnificent and sometimes challenging children. She loves shellfish, the out of doors, the youth and hearing her children laugh. She and her fine husband, their family, and their sometimes very large pets, now live in a mountain valley in northern Utah, where it smells like heaven and kids still move sprinkler pipe.

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Bridgerton 3 upsets fans with major Francesca love story change; Reddit debates 'Genderswap' twist

Bridgerton Season 3 aired its highly anticipated second part on June 13, delivering a satisfying conclusion for Colin Bridgerton and Penelope Featherington (now Mrs Bridgerton). While fans eagerly watched and rooted for the main leads, many were disappointed by what they perceived as mishandling of Francesca's love story, straying from Julia Quinn's original novel and sparking heated discussions on Reddit about the 'Genderswap' twist.

Bridgerton 3 hints major Francesca's love story change

As Polin found their way out of Lady Whistledown ’s showdown, achieving a satisfying closure with junior Lord Featherington playing in the cradle towards the end, Francesca's journey seemed to have just begun. She moved to Scotland with her newlywed husband, Lord Kilmartin, accompanied by Eloise who seeks a perfect escape from the society to the world of castles. Fans were delighted to witness Francesca's steadfast love for John as she bravely stood before the queen. However, readers of the book know her story takes a tragic turn when John passes away shortly after their marriage. The uncertainty of what comes next has left fans in a state of debate.

What change did Bridgerton 3 make with Francesca's love story?

The younger Bridgerton sibling is said to have an actual love story with John’s cousin Michael. According to the novel, the romance starts after she is widowed, feeling a pull towards Michael with no one else to rely on. However, in Season 3, Michael Sterling has become Michaela Sterling. This change in the character's gender suggests a future LGBTQ+ love story, which fans are generally accepting of, although many had hoped this angle would be more suitable for Eloise and Benedict or maybe some other character but not her since she wants a baby.

Towards the finale, we get a glimpse of Michaela when she asks Francesca to introduce herself, but she stumbles. Showrunner Jess Brownell told Glamour, “There are also some elements of her story that allow us to make sure we can tell a pretty happy ending for Francesca and Michaela. It was important for me in telling a main queer story for us to be able to give them a happily ever after, as we have with every other couple.”

Also read: Taylor Swift fans shake Edinburgh with seismic activity with these 3 songs during Eras tour

Reddit reacts to Francesca's story in Bridgerton 3

Many debated that since Benedict is already exploring his sexuality amid his relationship with Tilley Arnold and her friend Paul, there was no need to change the beloved character of Michael Sterling, who is one of the famous novel characters. “I think they picked the wrong sibling to do it with. I think, of the love interests of the Bridgertons, the best ones to change probably would have been Sophie and/or Gareth. I think too much of Francesca's season was about her desire to have children; it will be weird for that to be resolved now if they keep it in, and I'd be sad if they removed it,” a Reddit user wrote.

“Agree, I'm all for changing side stories and subplots as long as they didn't mess with the main story for each character. I quite enjoyed Francesca and Michael, knowing that I won't see that story is incredibly disappointing.”

“I think it would have been better if they had not changed the characters from the book but instead done a series with new LGBTQ characters whom the readers weren’t attached to!” Another one wrote. However, few found the upcoming storyline even more intriguing now that the gender has been changed.

Also read: Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck enjoy late night party at rental house; singer avoids sleeping over

“Shocked that they're going to this direction, but it's intriguing. Of all the Bridgertons, I thought they'll genderswap Phillip Crane,” another user chimed in.

“Same here! As a bi woman myself, the gender swap doesn't really change anything for me, I'm still excited - but I can understand how it may upset many of the book fans,” wrote one more.

Read more news like this on HindustanTimes.com

The Brat Pack but no Breakfast Club? Why Andrew McCarthy documentary is missing members

Andrew McCarthy has come to accept, even love, the Brat Pack. But it's been a journey.

For years, the "Pretty In Pink" and "St. Elmo's Fire" actor bristled at the mention of the unshakable description thrust upon a generation of young rising stars in the 1980s. Yet in his new Hulu documentary "Brats" ( streaming Thursday ), McCarthy embarks on a journey tracking down other forever-branded members − stars like Demi Moore, Ally Sheedy, Rob Lowe and Emilio Estevez − to talk Brat Pack.

"There's only a handful of us that this all happened to, the only ones who know what it felt like. But we never talked about it," director McCarthy, 61, tells USA TODAY of his "Brats" discussions with co-stars he hadn't spoken with in decades. "We have something really profound that happened in our lives, and they were willing to talk to me about it on camera."

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How did Andrew McCarthy get the Brat Pack to talk in 'Brats'?

"Brats" begins with McCarthy reaching out to the Brat Pack by pulling out old contacts, even wrangling Judd Nelson's phone number from a manager. McCarthy makes the first filmed call to Estevez, who was the subject of a snarky 1985 New York Magazine cover story that coined the instantly permanent term Brat Pack.

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"I felt that I had lost the narrative of my career overnight," McCarthy says of the infamous article. The ensemble movie "St. Elmo's Fire" (starring Estevez, Moore, Sheedy, Lowe and Nelson), released a few weeks later, became the white-hot center of the Brat Pack sensation.

Contrary to the public imagination, the Brat Pack members didn't hang out, especially after the article came out. And they didn't keep in touch. McCarthy's cold calls kicking off "Brats" are raw. Many go to voicemail.

"When I'm calling somebody, it's the first time in more than 30 years. But it's like, 'Let's call Emilio,' " McCarthy says. "I wanted the viewers to be on this journey with me. I seem wary and trepidatious at first."

When McCarthy meets with Estevez, 62, at his Malibu home in "Brats," it's their first face-to-face encounter since the premiere of "St. Elmo's Fire." The conversation hits on Estevez's past telling comment that "Brat Pack will be on my tombstone" (he still believes it and accepts it). The "Young Guns" actor also reveals that he avoided starring in movies with McCarthy and the others because they were "kryptonite to each other."

"Emilio was particularly poignant," McCarthy says of the discussion before the two hugged it out.

In successive conversations with Lowe, Sheedy and Moore (whom he calls "the Obi-Wan Kenobi of my film"), McCarthy explores the confusing Brat Pack past and the long, often painful road to appreciating their shared history.

"Everybody started at the same point: Everybody hated it when it happened. And then over time, everyone's evolution toward it has been different," McCarthy says. "But we never talked about it because the minute it happened, those relationships scattered and those ensemble movies stopped. No one wanted to be in a movie together. So the very naming of the Brat Pack ended the Brat Pack, in a certain way."

Are Molly Ringwald and Judd Nelson in 'Brats'?

John Hughes' 1985 film "The Breakfast Club" is a cornerstone of the Brat Pack library, with a cast that includes Estevez, Sheedy, Nelson and Molly Ringwald. The latter two stars did not ultimately sit down for "Brats" interviews.

"We asked Judd, we asked Molly," McCarthy says. "It didn't work out."

There's a recurring "Brats" theme of McCarthy wrangling Nelson − talking to him on the phone, leaving messages, and traveling to Los Angeles to find that Nelson is out of town.

"Then eventually, finally, (Nelson) said, 'You know what? I don't feel like doing it.' Which is fine," says McCarthy, who points out that Nelson and Ringwald appear in "Brats" through "really insightful" archival interviews.

The vintage footage of the actors being probed about the derivative term during interviews are painful to watch.

"For like the first two months, the Brat Pack is brought up all the time. And we're reacting to it, often twitching and cringing," McCarthy says. "Clearly, everybody's publicist said 'No Brat Pack questions.' So then everybody's asking about it without using the two words. Which is really awkward because, clearly, that was forbidden. But that didn't work either."

Through the "Brats" interviews, which include pop-culture social scientist Malcolm Gladwell, McCarthy furthers his appreciation of why fans looked to these stars during the youth-movie explosion the Brat Pack ignited.

"The public realized very quickly, 'This is awesome. These guys represent us,' " McCarthy says. "So they understood something we didn't at the beginning."

People are still talking about the Brat Pack 39 years after the article, sharing memories with McCarthy on the streets of New York City, where he resides. He accepts these talks with a grateful state of mind.

"This film is all of us being like, 'What the heck was all that?' to 'Wow, that was a beautiful thing.' We are the avatars of a generation's youth. I wouldn't trade this for the world. But if you told me that 30 years ago, I would have said that you were crazy."

Like Estevez, McCarthy is sure the Brat Pack will follow him beyond this life.

"If there is an obituary, that will be in the first sentence. Fair play. The beauty of it is that now I'm cool with that. It's like, I'll take that."

Terre Haute janitor Richard Goodall on journey to his stunning America's Got Talent audition

Before Richard Goodall took the America’s Got Talent stage , there was one judge he told producers he just did not want to talk to: Simon Cowell.

So, naturally, the notoriously biting former “American Idol” judge was picked to introduce Goodall to a packed Los Angeles theater on March 28. Goodall had taken the first plane trip of his life to make it to the audition, and he was staying in Pasadena on a shoestring budget. As he stood before judges Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Heidi Klum and Howie Mandel, the 54-year-old school janitor from Terre Haute was visibly anxious.  

“You a bit nervous?” Cowell asked.

Goodall nodded: “This has been a long time coming.”

“We’re here, we’re rooting for you, Richard. Good luck,” Cowell said before turning to his fellow judges and adding, “I hope he’s good."

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If you’ve watched the viral moment that aired on Tuesday night, you know what happens from there. Goodall, affectionately known as Mr. Richard to the kids in the Vigo County school district where he’s worked for the last 23 years, brings the crowd to their feet with a blazing performance of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

Klum gave him a Golden Buzzer, which passes him straight to the live shows, starting in August, where viewers will decide his fate. Based on the thousands of messages he says he's received from fans around the world, he seems to be an early favorite.

His audition aired two months to the day after it was taped. On Thursday, Goodall was cleaning lockers at West Vigo Middle School.

"You can take so much love," he told IndyStar. "My gosh, how do you give it all back other than just singing and doing what you do?"

Richard Goodall's lifelong love of music

Goodall said he used to sit at home with his RadioShack stereo, belting along so loudly his mom would tap the ceiling downstairs with a broom to try and quiet him down.

"I love all kinds of music," he said. In fact, the first song he ever felt he nailed wasn't from the Journey catalog — it was Barry Manilow's " I Write the Songs ."

"I love those songs that are smooth at the beginning and have a slow build and then at the end you're just belting it out," he said.

Goodall started performing at karaoke nights in the 1990s, he said, and eventually on the contest circuit with local radio stations, primarily singing country and gospel. He stuck with the latter for several years, performing as part of two gospel trios, until the COVID-19 pandemic put everything on pause. Then, in June 2021, his wife, Patty, died of cancer .

"When you're married for so long and they pass away and you've got that void there, your biggest concern is figuring out who you are without them," he said. "And music was the bridge again."

Goodall's viral 2022 TikTok got Steve Perry's attention — and AGT's

This isn’t the first time Goodall has gone viral for his performance of the 1981 rock classic.

A clip of him performing at a school talent show was posted to TikTok in 2022 and has since amassed more than 3 million views. Journey shared the clip on their official TikTok account and the video Goodall posted to his personal account received a supportive comment from former frontman Steve Perry himself.

That performance first caught the eye of America's Got Talent producers more than a year ago, Goodall told IndyStar, but for whatever reason, his first opportunity to join the show for Season 18, which ran from May to September of last year, didn't pan out. So, he deleted the producer's number and moved on with his life.

Then, Mandel reposted the video last September with the caption "Needs to be on agt."

Goodall wouldn't let himself get excited about it this time, he said, until the flight was booked and he had tickets in hand. Even then, it didn't seem real. The audition lined up perfectly with the school district's spring break, so he didn't have to miss work, and a friend offered to drive him to the Indianapolis airport and care for his three chihuahuas during his five-day trip.

Once Goodall landed in LA, the experience was surreal.

"I was more than a fish out of water," he said. "I was an amoeba out of a fish out of water."

Production paid for his flight and accommodations and a $25 per diem for food. The first night, he walked half a mile to a nearby Whole Foods and bought a pound of lunch meat, a loaf of bread, two cartons of cottage cheese, some bottled water and mayo and mustard. Sightseeing wasn't an option, since cabs and attractions were too expensive. So, to pass the time, he walked around the area."They take so good care of their old buildings," he said. "City Hall is absolutely gorgeous, their post office — the leaded glass is beautiful."

And on his free Wednesday evening, he used his per diem to treat himself to a spaghetti dinner.

"I had all these fancy people — Gucci purses and Hilfiger, you could tell these people had money — and here I am, sitting like a king on this sidewalk with my wonderful spaghetti and meatballs and garlic shrimp. ... I was on top of the world."

A GoFundMe has been created to help offset the cost of his anticipated 10-day trip to Los Angeles to compete in the live shows — and to allow his fiancée, Angie, to travel with him.

'I'm going to give it my all' on America's Got Talent

On Thursday, after cleaning out lockers at the middle school, Goodall was headed to his second job, cleaning the office of a local fence company. Whatever happens next with America's Got Talent, he said, he's already had an amazing experience.

"I don't have any expectations of winning the show," he said. "I'm going to give it my all and I'm going to try to be the best competitor that I can be."

If he does win, he plans on continuing to live as normal a life as possible. He says he'd use the $1 million prize to buy a double-wide trailer in a senior living community in Florida and enjoy retirement — with the occasional pasta and seafood dinner. "I'm not a fancy person," he said.

With all the negativity in the world today, he's glad to be of inspiration to the people who have connected with his story of capturing the Golden Buzzer.

"I think people just need something — anything — just something to realize that not everything's bad," he said. "I have my bad days just like everybody else, but we're still here, we're still fighting, we're still kicking."

America's Got Talent airs Tuesdays at 8 p.m. on NBC and can be streamed the following day on Peacock.

GoFundMe to support Richard Goodall

To give to the GoFundMe created to support Goodall during his trip to compete in America's Got Talent, visit bit.ly/4c08uj3 .

Contact IndyStar pop culture reporter Holly Hays at [email protected]. Follow her on X/Twitter: @hollyvhays.

Columbus couple use Stonewall Pride March to tie the knot on 'Love Boat' float

For Magnus Juliano and Darius Golds, Pride has always had a special place in their relationship. But on Saturday, it took on an even bigger role.

The pair got married before the annual Stonewall Pride March on the Columbus Museum of Art float that Juliano helped design with other local artists.

The theme of the float, "Love Boat," coincided with the grooms' wedding ensembles, featuring sparkling sailor hats, uniforms and — of course — white shorts.

"When we think of gay pride, the sailor's uniform is iconic," Golds said. "We wanted to be traditional in a sense of a Pride look."

And the float's theme reflects the pair's readiness to journey through life together, Juliano said.

Juliano, 32, and Golds, 30, got engaged in 2019 in New York City during Stonewall Pride's 50th Anniversary Parade , so Saturday's wedding ceremony brought even more meaning to the day for the pair.

The two men met while working at different retail locations at Easton Town Center but their true "meet cute" happened at Franklin Park, they said. They were each walking, separately, when they ran into each other.

"The sun was perfect," Golds said, with Juliano adding that the "butterflies were flying."

"That was the moment of connection for us that this was something special," Golds said.

The pair plan to continue to celebrate Pride but haven't decided on what next big life event to celebrate.

Related coverage: Columbus traffic: Air Show, Pride and Intel's 'super load' combine for busy weekend

"Pride is just such a big factor in our love," Juliano said. "It's a reminder of perseverance and protest …. but maybe expect a show."

Golds said he wants to become an officiant so he can pass on the love that he has experienced at Pride to other couples.

Saturday's march featured several hundred floats, decorated vehicles and local, state and national organizations marching down High Street to Goodale Park, where the Columbus Pride Festival is taking place.

The march was paused for about 20 minutes after a half-dozen protesters blocked the parade route with signs in support of Palestine .

Columbus police dialogue officers conferred with parade organizers and the protesters and after discussions, the protesters gave a statement and then moved out of the way of the parade.

Several other groups of people protesting the Pride parade lined the route but were largely ignored or drowned out by the parade.

[email protected]

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F1 News: The Incredible Story Behind Mary McGee Who Stole The Show In Martin Brundle's Canadian GP Grid Walk

Lydia mee | jun 10, 2024.

During a captivating pre-race "grid walk" at the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal, Sky Sports F1 broadcaster and former F1 driver Martin Brundle encountered a remarkably inspiring woman, Mary McGee, whose story became a highlight of the day. At 87, McGee, an American racing pioneer, shared moments from her groundbreaking career with Brundle.

Brundle, accustomed to interviewing top figures in the motorsports world, found himself kneeled beside McGee. The interview illuminated McGee's rich history in motorsports, dating back to 1957 when she began racing cars before switching to motorcycles in 1960. Her career spanned over five decades, ending in 2012. Capturing the spirit of the conversation, McGee reminisced, "I first started racing cars in 1957 and then I switched to motorcycles in 1960 and I quit in 2012."

"I am cheering for Mr Hamilton of course!" ⭐ What a duo... Mary McGee & Martin Brundle ❤️ pic.twitter.com/gzxMxtpkxa — Sky Sports F1 (@SkySportsF1) June 9, 2024

Brundle, visibly impressed by McGee's journey, expressed his admiration without probing too personally: "Amazing, obviously I won’t ask you how old you are. That’s an incredible story. Is this your first time on a Formula 1 grid?" McGee hilariously revealed that she attended a U.S. Grand Prix at Riverside, where she met two-time F1 world champion Jimmy Clark. "I love Formula 1 racing. I was at Riverside many years ago for the first Formula 1 race, met Jimmy Clark for god sake!"

Beyond reminiscing about the past, McGee shared her enthusiasm for current F1 racing, specifically her support for seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton during the Montreal race, where he finished fourth behind winner Max Verstappen.

The Historic Journey of Mary McGee

Mary McGee embarked on her motorsport career in the late 1950s, initially racing in a Mercedes 300SL under the Sports Car Club of America. Her transition from cars to motorcycles was partly influenced by unexpected events, such as a friend needing to sell a 200cc 1956 Triumph Tiger Cub. It was this decision that thrust her into the world of motorcycle road racing, a move encouraged by race-car legend Vasek Polak, who had noticed McGee's potential.

McGee's decision to switch to motorcycles led her to secure a FIM license, making her the first American woman to do so. Racing with a 125 Honda CB92 capped with a pink polka-dot helmet, she left an indelible mark on the sport. Her foray into desert racing on advice from Hollywood icon Steve McQueen further broadened her horizons, who suggested switching from "pansy road-racing" to the more challenging desert racing. She debuted at the AMA District 37 Enduro in California in 1963.

Lewis Hamilton and Mary McGee. ❤️ https://t.co/jdl4JX6mhE pic.twitter.com/xteRPwwWZN — deni (@fiagirly) June 10, 2024

In 1975, she raced solo in the Baja 500 on a 250 Husqvarna, surpassing seventeen two-man teams, a feat both historic and daunting considering the race's brutal conditions. McGee's commitment to motorsport, paired with her indomitable spirit, has earned her numerous honors, including induction into the AMA Motorcycle Hall of Fame and being named a FIM Legend.

Although she retired from active competition in the late 1970s, McGee revived her racing passion through vintage motocross in the late 1990s after relocating to Northern Nevada. Her story is not only a testament to her personal drive and tenacity but is also incredibly inspiring to women in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Mary McGee's Achievements As A Woman In Motorsport

• 1975: First and only woman to compete in the Baja 500 solo
• 1968: First woman to complete the Baja 1000
• 1960: First woman to compete in a US MC/FIM sanctioned motorcycle race in America
• First Woman to race Motocross in the US, to Road Race motorcycles in the US, and the first woman to race with Europeans in International motocross in the US.

Lydia is the lead editor of F1 editorial. After following the sport for several years, she was finally able to attend the British Grand Prix in person in 2017. Since then, she's been addicted to not only the racing, but the atmosphere the fans bring to each event. She's a strong advocate for women in motorsport and a more diverse industry. 

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