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Love Quote by Cheryl Strayed

“There’s a poem by Adrienne Rich I first read twenty years ago called “Splittings” that I thought of when I read your letter. The last two lines of the poem are: “I choose to love this time for once / with all my intelligence.” It seemed such a radical thought when I first read those lines when I…” quote by Cheryl Strayed
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““There’s a poem by Adrienne Rich I first read twenty years ago called “Splittings” that I thought of when I read your letter. The last two lines of the poem are: “I choose to love this time for once / with all my intelligence.” It seemed such a radical thought when I first read those lines when I was twenty-two—that love could rise from our deepest, most reasoned intentions rather than our strongest shadowy doubts.””

Cheryl Strayed

About This Quote

Source Poem: “Splittings” by Adrienne Rich, 1978

Choosing love deliberately, guided by intellect rather than fear, transforms relationships and self‑perception.

In simple terms: Love can be a conscious, rational choice.

Key Takeaway

Embrace love with intention.

Themes

love reason self‑growth

Mood

hopeful reflective

Type

inspirational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • self‑reflection
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

conscious choice radical acceptance

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you practice intentional love?
  • What fears block rational love?
A Different Perspective

Love may feel forced if not authentic.

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