Agape

“Agapē (IPA: /ˈægəpiː/[1]) (Gk. αγάπη [aˈɣa.pi]), is one of several Greek words translated into English as love. The word has been used in different ways by a variety of contemporary and ancient sources, including Biblical authors. Many have thought that this word represents divine, unconditional, self-sacrificing, active, volitional, and thoughtful love. Greek philosophers at the time of Plato and other ancient authors have used forms of the word to denote love of a spouse or family, or affection for a particular activity, in contrast to philia—an affection that could denote either brotherhood or generally non-sexual affection, and eros, an affection of a sexual nature. The term agape is rarely used in ancient manuscripts, but was used by the early Christians to refer to the self-sacrificing love of God for humanity, which they were committed to reciprocating and practicing towards God and among one another.”

Last night, in an odd collision of miracles, Tanner and I had the night off, AND we had money. We don’t go on a lot of date dates (yes, I’m using a noun to modify another noun, sorry), mostly because we’re broke and transportationless.

We walked from our apartment to the little Italian restaurant Lorenzos and had dinner and a nice, overdue conversation. We actually see each other more often than we used to now (since we’re working together) but rarely have those soul baring, quality talks.

Someday, maybe, I will go into more detail about our converstation, but all I can say is inbetween salad and entree I broke down a little. Tanner didn’t get embarassed, or spew a flurry of compliments just to get to me to regain composure. In truth I think he was glad, sometimes he thinks I’m a robot. He said several reassuring things of course, just because he is a fantastic husband and friend, but the best one was,

“Amanda, I love you for who you are.”

The phrase itself is maybe overused in romatic comedies and maybe sounds cheesy on the surface. Of course we all know in the crevices of our minds that we are loved unconditionally. But to hear it, to have it confirmed is a million times more powerful. Tanner shows me that kind of love regularly through his words and actions. That sweet, unmoveable, God inspired agape. I am so blessed to have him in my life.

Saturday

Tanner and I had the day off Saturday. We rarely have time off that overlaps, so we made the most of it.

Tanner got a haircut, we went to the mall and bought him pants (not an easy task, few retail stores carry size “Gignatic.” We went home, at Mexican at Cha-Chi’s, and bought a pumpkin at Toucan’s and went home to promptly carve it.

Pictures of my amazing pumpkin carving skills. I am a master.

 

PS: We’re hosting Thanksgiving this year. Got any recipe recommendations?