My definition is not sweet or romantic. Love is a choice. Nobody (including myself) is always gentle, patient and kind. However, if I choose to love that person, then I can endure their bad moments just as they choose to endure mine.

Friends are chosen. If somebody is too negative or too abrasive then I can choose to stay away from them or choose to love them in spite of their faults.

My family is the same. I can choose to over-look faults and extend love, even if the same is not extended to me. Or I can choose to walk away and save my sanity.

It is my choice.