The Wonders and Woes of Whirlwind Romances

“The capacity of passion is both cruel and divine.” ~George Sand

Many relationships that begin like an out-of-control, raging forest fire can smolder down to nothing but smoke and ashes with alarming speed.

Despite this observation, there is something so exhilarating about the fast-paced, intensely passionate, sweep-you-off-your-feet kind of romance that makes it almost impossible to resist.

It’s exciting to have someone suddenly putting you at the center of their universe or to feel drawn to someone like a moth to a flame.

Even at a mature age, you may subconsciously wish for the perfect lover to come rescue you from the mundane and take you to a world of endless romance.

Based on the titles and themes of many novels, movies and television shows, this is a very common fantasy.

Certainly there are relationships that began as whirlwind romances and have stood the test of time. Without a doubt, some people who felt intense, immediate attraction have been able to sustain love for the long haul.

However, as exciting as it can be to fall in love fast and hard, there are critical reasons to catch your breath and look carefully before you leap. It’s important to use your head before fully giving your heart.

“Following your heart can be rewarding

if you balance emotions with reality.”

It only feels like it in the beginning. Many couples have awakened from the first exhilarating pangs of love wondering what in the world they were thinking.

While you may be flattered by the attention you are receiving from someone new, there are some people out there who are not dealing with you in good faith. Sometimes the rush is a result of some deep insecurity or unmet need.

For example, someone who is in serious financial trouble, unemployed or deep in debt may not have stars in their eyes but dollar signs.

If you or a potential partner has gone through a significant loss, breakup or divorce, one or both of you may be on the rebound or looking for a replacement to help numb the pain.

If you are in midlife or beyond, you may have assets to protect to ensure your own well-being and security in your retirement years.

You need to fully consider what kind of relationship you want at this stage in life and how this romantic involvement will impact your life overall.

The best time to find out who someone is on a core level is before you invest all of your precious time, attention and affection on them. Be clear about what you want and need in your life and listen to your own intuition.

A person who is sincerely interested in you and who has your best interest at heart will want you to feel comfortable, safe and confident about the pacing and direction of the relationship.

Sure, a whirlwind romance can be fun and exciting. Finding love and romance at any age can be a joyful blessing. Enjoy getting to know a potential romantic partner, but choose love wisely.

Following your heart can be rewarding as long as you balance your emotions with reality.