It is awesome when real but very hard to find

Maybe it's the word "unconditional" that bothers me ("To love another person under any circumstances..."). In every relationship there has to be some boundaries otherwise one is set up for disappointment. My late partner would sometimes tell me that if I stepped out on her, no matter how hard, she would leave. I didn't understand this for a long time as I have experienced adultery from my first wife and know how it feels and could never do this to another. My 2nd partner was alcoholic and went through detox and was sober 5 years. She then relapsed and all hell broke loose. To me this was a form of adultery except with a substance instead of person. However, with my late partner boundaries were understood and very high. If life is conditional so are relationships. When she was dying I felt I would gladly take her place if I could. As you said, if you love someone you want what's best for them not yourself (in this case that meant supporting her decision to end it with the Death with Dignity program). I also finally realized her comment. It was about her and that reason must prevail over emotion when dealing with the bad things in life (including adultery or other serious transgressions from her partner or even family member - she sent her brother and sister-in-law away because they questioned her decision). She died happy, with a smile and grateful that she had had the life she did. She refused to let any negative emotions get the better of her. I also understood her motto: Discipline first (reason) then love.

That was good! Really makes you think.

Love this!