Love is all you need.

No one would ever describe me as a girly-girl. I love sports, I don't wear any makeup, I avoid Taylor Swift like the plague, and I hate shoes. So, most people are surprised when they learn how much I love weddings. In fact, I've been chastised by many loved ones for my fascination with the royal wedding. However, it's quite easy to explain: I love love.

I have spent countless hours struggling over religion. I have actively tried to find God. I ask questions, I do research, I try to create moments where I might feel connected. I've attended church services, I've read the Bible, I've prayed, and still I end up right where I began, feeling confused, afraid, and alone. Only recently have I started to see that you simply can't believe in something you don't.

The older I get, the more I realize that the only thing in this world that I believe in unwaveringly is love.

This world is an ugly place. I often find myself disgusted and heartbroken with the state of things. I'm surrounded by hate, lies, betrayal, jealousy, loneliness, unfair judgments, cheaters, violence, and sadness. Horrible things happen to good people, justice is often left unserved, and life simply isn't fair. Tornadoes devastate Alabama, killing hundreds and leaving thousands homeless in one night. An entire group of people face constant harassment and continue the fight for equality into the 21st century, simply because of their sexual preference. Courageous soldiers give the ultimate sacrifice for their country, often without recognition from the news and their fellow countrymen.

Even on a night like tonight, a night that many thought would never come, I can't help but notice the ugliness. While trying to accomplish something much more important for the good of the country and the world, our president was forced to waste time releasing his birth certificate to quell absurd rumors started and perpetuated by fear mongers. While on my Facebook, I can't help but be shocked by the hateful words of some. Partisan differences cause people to senselessly argue over who "gets credit" for the killing of Osama Bin Laden. People celebrate without reflection, posting racist remarks that degrade an entire group of people and religion. Conspiracy theorists abound. I worry that this news will trigger more attacks, angering terrorists into devastating retaliation.

Initially, I was shocked by the celebrations tonight. This is a time that calls for appropriate reflection, not wild, drunken, naive celebration. Call me crazy, but I cannot celebrate a death. I will, however, celebrate the justice being served. This closure is long overdue. Many, on BOTH sides of the aisle, have worked tirelessly for this day. However, the job is not done. Bin Laden's message doesn't die with him. There is a lot of work left to do and the world would be a much better place if we could be Americans while doing it, not just Republicans or Democrats.

However, amidst the chaos, petty differences, hate, fear, and racism, one thing remains overwhelmingly clear to me: love - an incredible love of country that I haven't seen since September 11, 2001. Fans at the Phillies/Mets game check their phones in unison and begin to chant "USA! USA!" Citizens gather outside the White House and on the streets in New York City to celebrate. My hope, my optimism, and my faith in the world is restored by nothing other than love. Whenever I am discouraged by harsh reality, I am encouraged by the love of others. I find my own personal peace in loving others and being loved in return. I know we can accomplish anything, as long as we do it with an open mind and love in our hearts.

Friday, I watched Prince William marry Kate Middleton and I smiled at the hope it represented. Yesterday, I witnessed the marriage of two very close friends and I cried because their love was perfect. Tomorrow, one day after another line was written for the history books, my brother leaves for yet more training because of his unwavering love of country. I've never been more proud in my life.

So, make fun of me all you want. I watched the royal wedding. I cried at a friend's wedding the next day. You know why? Because I know that John Lennon was right. Because, despite the horrors and absolute ugliness of the world, love, whether you find it in...

...your country...


...your friends...


...your soulmate...


...or your family...


...whether you find it in a complete stranger or in God Himself, love is truly all you need.