Word for the Wise

February 14, 2007 Broadcast

Topic: Words of love

On this day so very eagerly anticipated by restauranteurs, florists, and—oh yes, by lovers—we're passing along some words of love.

Those happy in love may appreciate the heartfelt words of Charles Dickens' on how to stay that way: "Have a heart that never hardens, a temper that never tires, and a touch that never hurts." Those recovering from love gone bad may find bitter comfort in this metaphor from Lynda Barry: "Love is an exploding cigar we willingly smoke."

Ready to reach out to one's secret valentine? Remember these words from Mahatma Gandhi: "love never claims, it ever gives." But, if you need to gird yourself for possible rejection, repeat this, from Washington Irving: "Love is never lost. If not reciprocated, it will flow back and soften and purify the heart."

We'll end with some words from Mark Twain, whose marriage was a long and loving one. He wrote: "Love seems the swiftest, but it is the slowest of all growths. No man or woman really knows what perfect love is until they have been married a quarter of a century."

Questions or comments? Write us at wftw@aol.com Production and research support for Word for the Wise comes from Merriam-Webster, publisher of language reference books and Web sites including Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Eleventh Edition.