Love is a funny thing — that may be one of the most cliche and true statements known to humankind. One day, you’ll be walking around with butterflies flapping in your stomach. The next, you may feel confused by the smallest thing, say, a less-than-enthusiastic hello or a delayed text response. From the much-anticipated first dates to the years-long log of text messages, the way your love feels can change as you spend more time with a person. Growing up alongside someone is a beautiful experience.
Disclaimer: In the 1950s and 1960s, falling in love was often understood as the first step toward marriage and family life. Romance was closely tied to stability and social approval, with love seen as the gateway to building a household. A woman who fell in love was expected to marry young, while a man was expected to provide and protect. These gender roles were rarely questioned, and most stories about love—from films to advertisements—reinforced the idea that a woman’s fulfillment came through being chosen by the right man.
