An American Muslim’s prayer: Forget love, let’s just be civil (COMMENTARY) – The Washington Post.

Love is a nice sentiment. Real love, though, is work. I can have love in my heart, but to love someone is to know that person. It means having compassion and empathy, and being engaged. You and the person you love have to commit to each other. 

 But I do not know you enough to love you, and I do not want to have to get to know you that well. It is too much work.

 I do appreciate the idea. I know it is coming from a good place. It just makes me carry the pressure of fixing someone else’s problem. It tires me.