A Love Deeper Than the Ocean

“If you have been brutally broken,

but still have the courage to be gentle to others

then you deserve a love deeper than the ocean itself.”

--Nikita Gill

What is the most tragic love story you have ever read or watched?

For literature lovers, there are numerous heartbreaking tales to consider: the tragic love story of the knight Tristan and Princess Isolde from medieval Celtic and Arthurian legends; the unrequited love of Majnun for Layla in classic Arabic literature, leading him into madness; Orpheus's passionate and destructive love for Eurydice in Greek mythology; the tormented love affair between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw in Emily Bronte's "Wuthering Heights"; and the illicit relationship between the married woman Anna Karenina and the wealthy officer Count Alexie Vronsky in Leo Tolstoy's novel "Anna Karenina."

(Note: I read Tolstoy's Anna Karenina in seminary, following Fyodor Dostoevsky's "The Brothers Karamazov." I was captivated by Russian realism. Russian authors delved into real people and events, portraying the complexities of human existence. They depicted the harsh realities of class struggle, poverty, and inequality amidst the affluent aristocratic society.)

Love and Tragedy: The Case of Romeo and Juliet

William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet stands as one of the most popular tragic love stories of all time. Its portrayal of passionate love, particularly the mystical experience of first love, resonates universally. The conflict between families depicted still evokes deep emotions, moving audiences to tears. The story illustrates how fate can dramatically alter lives, and how individuals struggle against it.

Romeo and Juliet (2013) starred by Douglas Booth and Hailee Steinfeld, directed by Carlo Carlei.

To young readers, Romeo and Juliet embody their own quest for independence, their rebellion against parental wishes, while remaining dependent on them in various aspects of life, hindering the pursuit of their desires, especially in love.

Nevertheless, Romeo and Juliet's tragic love story continues to captivate. There is enduring beauty in their imperfect, tragic love. The fact that their story transcends generations attests to the enduring power of their shattered yet enchanting love.

Our Shared Experience of Broken Relationships

The theme of broken relationships remains a prevalent and enduring topic in literature and film. This theme resonates because it mirrors the complexities of human emotions and connections. Broken relationships, whether romantic, familial, or friendships, serve as a potent vehicle for storytelling.

Such ruptures are a universal experience; most individuals have grappled with the pain, heartbreak, and confusion that accompany a relationship's demise. Audiences connect with characters and their struggles, rendering the stories more engaging and emotionally impactful. These narratives evoke a spectrum of emotions, from sadness and anger to betrayal and sometimes even relief. Exploring these emotions allows writers and filmmakers to delve into the human psyche, providing nuanced insights into how individuals cope with loss and disappointment.

How characters confront broken relationships often defines their growth and development throughout a story. Whether they find healing, forgiveness, or closure, these experiences shape their personalities and motivations. Witnessing this transformative journey captivates audiences.

These stories resonate deeply because they delve into the pain, growth, and healing that accompany severed connections, offering a reflection of the human experience. Audiences vicariously navigate the challenges of relationships through these fictional narratives.

Life is replete with pain and suffering, making it challenging to remain positive amid adversity. Each person faces unique struggles and hardships, making it difficult to find the strength and courage to persevere. Fortunately, there is something that can guide us through these trying times: love.

As Nikita Gill eloquently stated, “If you have been brutally broken but still have the courage to be gentle to others, then you deserve a love deeper than the ocean itself.” The ability to maintain kindness and compassion despite life's tribulations is a remarkable quality deserving of profound love.

The ocean, with its vastness and beauty, symbolizes resilience, strength, and perseverance. A love deeper than the ocean provides the fortitude to endure difficult times, sustaining our strength. It comprehends our pain and struggles yet remains gentle and kind.

A love deeper than the ocean is unconditional and everlasting. It never abandons, no matter how low one feels. It offers unwavering support and encouragement, regardless of circumstances.

If you have endured profound brokenness yet possess the courage to remain gentle and compassionate, you are worthy of this profound love. You deserve love and appreciation for your resilience, courage, and strength exhibited in the face of adversity. You merit a love deeper than the ocean, a love that empowers you during challenging times and bolsters your strength.