Myth or Reality: Finding True Love in High School
Every year on February 14th, many people take the time to express their love to their companions, whether they be partners, friends, or family. Even still, love remains a prominent theme in our society, not just on Valentine’s Day; we see love in songs, movies, television shows, and well, everywhere - including high school. Yes, you read that right, in high school.
When we first think of the question - “is it possible to find real love in high school?” - the common response is usually no. Many people believe that love is too complex an emotion for teenagers to feel toward one another. The concept of love itself, however, is one that we have difficulty grasping, as it is hard to come up with a solid definition for the word. Because love is not simply defined, it can mean different things for different people. So, if we do not truly understand the feeling, how can people decide that teenagers cannot feel this mysterious emotion? An article by Better Help, “Is Teen Love Real & Can It Last?”, provides an answer to the burning question, “The answer is simple and complex at the same time. Teen love can last - just ask all of the high school sweethearts that are still married decades later. It's not easy, but that's true of any romantic relationship. “
There are countless examples of couples who found their true love in high school. In fact, Cliffside Park’s own humanities supervisor, Mr. Jannucci, met his wife while attending Cliffside Park High School. Thanks to his guidance counselor, who became his future father-in-law, he was placed in a geometry class with his future wife. The pair became friends and soon began dating. Despite going to different colleges, they ended up getting married. When presented with the original question of whether or not it is possible to find true love in high school, Mr. Jannucci replied with obvious certainty, saying, “Absolutely! Real love is everywhere, but first and foremost it has to begin with self-love.”
So, yes, it is most definitely possible to discover real love in high school, despite what many may believe. Remember to keep an eye out, as you could be passing the person that you will spend the rest of your life with in the hallways!