How to Tell Love from Lust: A Timeless 1929 Litmus Test from E.B. White and James Thurber:
[themarginalian.org]
Anyone with half a brain knows whether they feel lust or love.
I had a conversation with a friend recently about a similar subject. I said that I believe oxytocin clouds our judgement, so must disagree with you.
@MsKathleen
From “Women- An Intimate Geography” by Natalie Angier.
"Oxytocin has been called the love hormone and the bonding hormone. It’s a dopy, wishful phrase, and a bit reductionist. Still, Oxytocin may be a player in the sensation of love."
When I have an orgasm, I am flooded with oxytocin, the same hormone that bonded me with my baby while nursing.
After sex, I briefly feel "relationship-y." It's a passing sensation. Not love.
As one ages, it is easier to tell the difference. One reaches the point that he or she wishes that he or she could again experience the lust one would like to have accompany the real love.