I read this morning that love is a decision to act in the best interests of others. I like that! But what does it have to do with that mushy feeling in your heart or that fire in your loins? Not much, eh? And therein lies the problem.

I love chocolate. I love my friend. I made love to my wife. I love God. Two are about appetite. One is about abiding friendship. One is adoration. So how can they all be “love?”

The Greek’s had different words all translated into the English “love.” They had phileo—the love for a friend; eros—that’s the erotic sexual stuff; and agape—the “best interests of others” love. Different words meant no confusion over what you meant when you said you “loved” something.

I think we need some new words. Instead of the blanket term “love” what words would you use to distinguish between the mushy erotic stuff, your love for chocolate or football, your devotion to your children, or your dedication to God? Got any new terms we could ad to the lexicon? I’d like to hear about them. Send them to me by clicking here.