How much of 'love' is mere reciprocity?

When someone demonstrates his/her love to us, we are likely to reciprocate accordingly. A smile is often greeted by another. Outstretched arms often meet another and enclasp as a hug. A gift often warrants another in return. (Genuine) proclamations of love often open up the heart, and mouth, of the beloved to proclaim likewise.

Pardon this rather cynical sounding analysis though, it certainly is not my intention to deride love. So much of life is made meaningful by relationships it's hard to imagine life without them! And it is a privilege to be the object of affection, to bask in an (unwarranted? heh.) outpour of love.

And in your overwhelming, unconditional love, I find new strength, hope and confidence. You take my hand and lead me oh so gently, to places I never knew existed! My heart can't help but open up to you, albeit gingerly, to be hurt, to be vulnerable, and to love.

Please show me that love never fails.