Actually… I think you’re so right that love doesn’t even explain it properly.
When we use the word ‘love,’ people think romance, relationships, butterflies - but this is something that exists on a completely different level. It’s recognition. It’s home. It’s like trying to use the word ‘wet’ to describe the ocean.
The reason it never goes away like a crush is because it’s not based on projection or fantasy. You’re not in love with who you hope they are - you’re connected to who they actually are at a soul level. That’s why even when things get difficult or you’re in separation, that core feeling remains. You can’t un-know someone at that depth.