When I was in New Orleans with two of my children, we came across a fence covered in locks. It was easy to figure out that couples had scratched dates and initials on the locks, then locked them to the fence. This is the photo I took of a section of the fence.
The idea intrigued me, and a nearby sign informed me that we were at the Eiffel Society, "A little piece of Paris in New Orleans," and evidently Love locks is a custom that began in Paris. Couples would fasten a lock to a fence or gate and then throw away the key to symbolize everlasting love and commitment to each other.
That made me wonder, did everyone who fastened a lock to the gate remain committed to each other? If they didn't, did they remember the lock and use bolt cutters to remove it? That would certainly take away from the feel of the place.
If you look up the definitions of commitment, one of them reads "an engagement or obligation that restricts freedom of action." Does being committed to another person or even a cause restrict freedom? Or is there more freedom in true love, true devotion? Thankfully another definition of commitment is " the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity." I think we can add "person" to that also.
I think the real definition of committed love is found in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7, " Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. "
Hanging a lock on the Love Lock fence is a noble gesture, but it is in living by the above rules that two people remain committed. Even for those who do not believe in the Bible, it's sound advice on maintaining a healthy relationship over time.
Have you ever seen Love locks or even hung a lock on a fence yourself? Whose initials would be on your lock?