Meaning: The quote "Loving can cost a lot but not loving always costs more, and those who fear to love often find that want of love is an emptiness that robs the joy from life" by Merle Shain encapsulates the complex nature of love and the potential consequences of both embracing and avoiding it. This thought-provoking statement delves into the idea that while love may come with its own set of challenges and sacrifices, the absence of love can lead to a profound sense of emptiness and a lack of fulfillment in life. Merle Shain, a Canadian author known for her insightful writings on relationships and human emotions, offers a poignant perspective on the value of love and the potential repercussions of denying oneself the experience of loving and being loved.

The first part of the quote, "Loving can cost a lot but not loving always costs more," speaks to the inherent risks and sacrifices involved in opening oneself up to love. Love often demands vulnerability, emotional investment, and the willingness to take chances. It requires individuals to invest time, effort, and sometimes even endure hardship in the pursuit of nurturing and maintaining meaningful connections. However, the quote suggests that despite the potential costs associated with love, the alternative of not loving carries even greater consequences. The absence of love can lead to a sense of emotional deprivation, a lack of intimacy, and a diminished quality of life.

The second part of the quote, "and those who fear to love often find that want of love is an emptiness that robs the joy from life," delves into the psychological and emotional impact of avoiding love. It highlights the idea that individuals who are apprehensive about love may eventually discover that their reluctance has left them with an overwhelming sense of emptiness and a profound absence of joy in their lives. The fear of loving and being loved can lead to a life devoid of the deep connections and emotional fulfillment that love can provide, ultimately resulting in a diminished capacity for experiencing happiness and contentment.

Merle Shain's quote serves as a reminder of the profound impact that love, or the lack thereof, can have on an individual's well-being and overall satisfaction with life. It invites contemplation on the intricacies of human relationships, the risks and rewards of love, and the emotional consequences of denying oneself the opportunity to love and be loved.

In conclusion, Merle Shain's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the multifaceted nature of love and its implications for human experience. It encourages contemplation on the potential costs of loving, as well as the far-reaching consequences of avoiding love. Ultimately, the quote serves as a reminder of the profound impact that love, or the absence of it, can have on an individual's emotional well-being and the richness of their life experiences.