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And you will remember that love is not getting, but…

“And you will remember that love is not getting, but giving; not a wild dream of pleasure, and a madness of desire — oh no, love is not that — it is goodness, and honour, and peace, and pure living — yes, love is that; and it is the best thing in the world, and the thing that lives longest.” quote by Henry Van Dyke
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“And you will remember that love is not getting, but giving; not a wild dream of pleasure, and a madness of desire — oh no, love is not that — it is goodness, and honour, and peace, and pure living — yes, love is that; and it is the best thing in the world, and the thing that lives longest.”

Henry Van Dyke

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True love is defined by selfless giving, honor, peace, and pure living, not by desire or pleasure.

In simple terms: Love is selfless giving and peace.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate love through generosity and honor.

Themes

love selflessness peace

Mood

hopeful reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • community service
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

ethical virtue spirituality human flourishing

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you embody love in daily actions?
  • What obstacles hinder selfless love?
A Different Perspective

Love can be idealized and hard to practice consistently.

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