"Another similar quest is the search for validation"

I believe that people tend to seek validation from others in general, whether it's from their partner or their friend. This is why a lot of people start to question themselves when they see everyone around them in relationships excepts for them, which is very unhealthy. People should rely on self-validation.

"The state of being “in love” is clearly fueled more by one’s imagination than by other person’s reality"

I totally agree with this since I've seen it happen in real life. For example when you have a crush or you like someone, then when you actually get to know them you realize that the personality you've created for them in your head is totally different from their real personality.

"love is a profound motivational state that is similar to an addiction"

I think this puts into perspective how love is not always healthy, even if it has the three components. An addiction is highly desirable, however it can be very consuming and draining.

"Moments of affectionate closeness between parents followed by weeks of icy distance or turbulent conflict render the concept of love a mystery"

This showcases insecure attachment styles that tends to originate from the household and childhood. Children who grow up with parents who gave them mixed signals, tend to grow into adults with insecure attachment issues.

"maybe John and I were on such different cycles that we never loved simultaneously.”

This statement reminded me of our discussion in class of how each person shows their love differently. People tend to have different love languages, and when they're too different it can create issues such as "he stopped loving me"

“Is it infatuation, lust, a passing fancy, or a love that is deep enough to base a lifelong commitment on?”

This goes back to the three main components of love, whereas in order to have a long life commitment to the person you love, your love should include all three components (Intimacy, passion and commitment)