With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, I’ve been thinking about all of the great love stories that have been told via film.

I found a list of 50 on AMCTV.com’s website. Okay, obviously The Notebook is on the list. And Titanic, Gone With the Wind, Ghost…and 46 others.

It was the lack of one title that irked me, however: Bridges of Madison County, starring Meryl Streep and Clint Eastwood. Have you seen it? It’s truly a must-see love story.

Yes, it’s a movie about infidelity. Knowing that before I watched it the first time, I was very judgmental. Prejudiced even, since I’d been cheated on in the past.

That being said, I came to understand their love for each other. They were innocents who did not intend to fall in love, yet there was just no denying their feelings for each other.

I love the way it slowly unfolds, setting up the foundation for their friendship and their evident mutual attraction. Oh, and the sexual tension—when Meryl Streep’s character finally gives herself permission to acknowledge her feelings it becomes a rollercoaster of will they/won’t they and (for me anyway) Oh I hope they do!

I found myself actually rooting for their relationship!

I’m glad my mind (and heart) opened as the story progressed. What I took away from it is that it’s not so much a movie about infidelity as it is about honoring your true feelings.

I would have jumped out of the truck. How about you?

Jennifer Townsend is Co-Chief of Clan Townsend, noted for its wee heathens and furry beasties. She is fond of saying “verra.” She is verra determined to visit Eilean Donan Castle in Scotland. Finn Brothers’ music is good for her soul and she can be found most days editing articles for elephantjournal.com or blogging about her obsession with Jamie Fraser on her website www.OutlanderFan.com or its corresponding Facebook page here.

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Ed: Lynn Hasselberger