It's very easy to get swept away by media images of love, be it in the movies or magazines or romantic bodice-ripping novels. Love can look like that at times, but real love � intimacy, really � is very based in real life. Meaning, sometimes it feels great, sometimes it sucks and other times it's OK.
Work? It will always be work, but you have to define what work is. To me it's being respectful, kind, generous, loving, understanding, open-minded, honest, forgiving, nurturing, empathetic and genuine. And none of that is "easy" � but, so what? Isn't he or she WORTH IT?