Love is not affectionate feeling, but a steady wish for the loved person’s ultimate good as far as it can be obtained.
What’s the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: C.S. Lewis’s quote provides a profound perspective on the nature of love, distinguishing it from mere sentimental or emotional affection. It presents love as a selfless and altruistic commitment to the well-being and growth of another person.
At its core, this quote challenges the notion that love is primarily about the warm and fuzzy feelings we experience. While affectionate feelings are undoubtedly a part of love, Lewis suggests that true love transcends fleeting emotions. Instead, it is characterized by a resolute and unwavering desire for the best possible outcome for the beloved individual.
The phrase “a steady wish for the loved person’s ultimate good” underscores the idea that love is not self-serving but rather other-centered. It means genuinely caring for someone’s welfare and happiness, even when it requires sacrifice or tough decisions. Love is a commitment to support, nurture, and uplift the beloved person on their life journey.
The phrase “as far as it can be obtained” acknowledges the limitations of human love. It recognizes that we cannot control or guarantee the outcomes for the people we love, but we can aspire to help them achieve the best possible outcomes within our power.
This quote encourages a deeper and more profound understanding of love—one that is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a genuine concern for the growth and well-being of others. It calls us to action, prompting us to actively seek ways to contribute to the betterment of those we love, even when it may require selflessness or difficult choices.
In essence, “Love is not affectionate feeling, but a steady wish for the loved person’s ultimate good as far as it can be obtained” invites us to elevate our understanding of love from a mere emotion to a powerful force for positive change in the lives of those we care about. It encourages us to practice selfless love that seeks the best for others, even in the face of challenges and uncertainties.
Who said the quote?
The quote “Love is not affectionate feeling, but a steady wish for the loved person’s ultimate good as far as it can be obtained.” is often attributed to C. S. Lewis (Quotes). C. S. Lewis was a renowned British author and theologian known for his imaginative works, including “The Chronicles of Narnia,” and his contributions to Christian apologetics.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an impact-driven creator at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 life goals around the globe. Tal's journey and recent book, The Art of Fully Living, inspired him to found Elevate Society.
