Addicted To Love
                By Jesse Smith

        Today, boys and girls, let's take a look at the powers of love. What
is this power, this need that pulls us together? Well, at this time of
year, full of candies, flowers and pink hearts, it's time for me to throw
in my two cents. Here goes.

        Love is the result of a chemical reaction in the brain. It is
triggered by certain stimuli and makes us feel good. Attention, kisses,
touches, other's love and happiness make this chemical reaction increase
and make us feel in love. What a wonderful feeling.

        Now, let's go back and look at it again in different terms.
When an event happens, a chemical reaction takes place inside our bodies
making us feel good. The more chemical the happier we get and the more
we want. Put this way, love sounds like a chemical addiction. Wouldn't that
make lovers drug dealers?

        I bet most of you think I'm completely off my rocker at this point.
How about this thought? When you're first in love it feels like everything
is wonderful, more colourful and you feel like it's OK and you're happy.
Sounds like a nice pot trip. Doesn't it?

        Ever been in a relationship that started out all nice and fresh and
happy. Eventually it starts to go down hill. You know you can't make it all
better, but you stick with your partner anyway? Why? Devotion? Loyalty? I
bet that's not the real reason. Maybe they'll change? Not likely. Afraid
you won't find someone else? More likely. Maybe you just haven't been single
for awhile and don't want to go back? Yep, that's it.
        Even in relationships that have run their course, both people still
know each other. Still, in some ways, care for each other. Still provide a
little of the love drug. Don't want to be without that chemical. Not even
to improve your life.
        Love, like any other drug causes the person to do or avoid certain
things. Dumping an ass and getting your life together, for example. Moving
to the place you want, rather than where your partner is going. Whatever
it is, love can make you do strange things. All for that hit of chemical.

        Looking at it this way, the breakup seems to make more sense too.
I mean, good or bad, an ending relationship causes tears. Anger, frustration,
quick mood swings, sadness. Maybe even deep depressions and vomiting, after
a really great partner leaves. Why? You're going through withdrawal. Just like
any other drug, your body has become dependant and can't handle stopping
cold turkey.
        I bet a lot of one night stands and casual flings happen because
people everywhere are looking for a fix. Strangely enough, love and major
addictions seem to be far too similar.
        Now, I can understand the idea that prostitution could be considered
drug trafficking. I mean, cash for a quick fix of attention.

        So, since Love is a legal substance, please enjoy...carefully.