timeless. I saw this image today in the Washington Post Express. Naturally, I was intrigued. Like many individuals I struggle with understanding love and how to recognize it. I think I have a pretty solid understanding of familial love but romantic love is still a mystery to me.

I have always been intrigued by how love is defined cross-culturally. During their courtship my parents clipped cartoons out of the funnies and gave them to one another. Last year for Valentines Day I bought the Love Is book; a compilation of the cartoons I had seen in my parents album. The cartoon depicts a naked couple doing acts of service for one another. Across the top of the cartoon is always written Love Is... followed by an action.

Some people express their love through gifts, compliments, gestures, while others show love through physical affection. Some people believe love grows from friendship while others would argue love is impulsive, inspiring, and passionate. I have experienced both types of "love, " and honestly they were both wonderful. There have been times I have wondered, "would I die for love?" and I am not sure that I can answer that question honestly.

Anthropology has been defined as the study of man. Seeing this photo today made me grateful for my educational and professional training in anthropology. Although scientists may never be able to explain why or how this couple died, they have given the world a powerful symbol of love and its influence over "man."

From CNN:
The two bodies, which cuddle closely while facing each other on their sides, were probably buried at the same time, an indication of a possible sudden and tragic death, Bondioli said.
"It's rare for two young people to die at the same time, and that makes us want to know why and who they were, but it will be very difficult to find out."