How do queer families redefine love as practice rather than obligation?
When it comes to love, society has defined it as something that is given, shared, experienced, and practiced between heterosexual couples who decide to become romantically involved.
This definition has been challenged by queer individuals who believe that they are more inclusive in their views about love. They argue that love can be practiced among same-sex partners regardless of whether they have chosen to live together as a couple or remain single. In short, queer families redefine love as something that does not come from an obligation but rather from a deliberate choice to share life experiences with someone else.
Love in Queer Families
There are various ways in which queer families can define love. One way is through sharing intimate moments with each other that could include holding hands, hugging, kissing, touching, caressing, making out, having sex, cuddling, etc. The purpose of these actions is to communicate affection and show how much they care for one another. This may happen inside and outside the bedroom. Outside the bedroom, it could mean doing things together such as cooking dinner, watching movies, going to museums, playing sports, taking walks, visiting friends, traveling, shopping, gardening, reading books, etc. These activities provide them opportunities to spend time alone without being distracted by external influences.
Inside the bedroom, intimacy goes beyond physical contact. It involves emotional connection where they talk openly about what they feel towards each other.
If one partner admits that they need space after work, the other respects that request so that they don't feel crowded during unwinding time. Another example is when they go on dates and engage in conversations like asking questions about their partner's day. They also support each other emotionally when faced with challenges in life such as job loss, illness, death of loved ones, financial difficulties, breakups, etc. In this sense, love becomes an intentional act of giving rather than a natural response.
Benefits of Practicing Love
Practicing love instead of obligation has several benefits within queer families. Firstly, there is no pressure to maintain relationships because love can be practiced at any stage in life. Secondly, individuals are more likely to invest in themselves before committing to someone else.
Couples do not see their relationship as something that needs to be maintained but rather something that will change over time based on personal growth and development.
Queer families redefine love as practice rather than obligation through sharing moments together and supporting each other emotionally. This approach allows for greater flexibility and autonomy while still providing support needed in times of crisis or difficulty.
How do queer families redefine love as practice rather than obligation?
Queer families may see love not only as an intense feeling but also as something that is practiced through actions such as spending time together, caring for each other's needs, and providing support during difficult times. By defining love as a practice rather than an obligation, queer families may create a sense of security and connection that goes beyond traditional ideas of romantic relationships.