Chapter 1: The Origin of Love Is...

The tale of "Love Is..." began with charming little love notes created by Kim Casali for her future husband, Roberto.

In 1967, a young receptionist from New Zealand, residing in Los Angeles, began leaving playful notes adorned with cartoon figures for her boyfriend. These notes were hidden in various places—under pillows, inside drawers, and even tucked into jackets—serving as delightful reminders of her affection.

She compiled these whimsical creations into small books, selling them for just a dollar each from her workplace at a printing firm. One of her customers gifted a collection as a wedding present, sparking a trend for brides-to-be. This talented artist was none other than Kim Casali.

Roberto, her boyfriend, took the initiative to approach a newspaper syndicate in 1969, seeking interest in her cartoons. On January 5, 1970, her first cartoon was published in the Los Angeles Times. The response was overwhelming, leading to translations in 25 languages and distribution across 50 countries. Kim and Roberto married in 1970.

These simple yet profound phrases, such as "Love is… feeling light-headed" and "Love is… essential for life’s journey," became iconic. However, in 1975, Kim paused her artistic endeavors to care for Roberto, who was battling terminal cancer.

Kim Casali passed away in 1997 at the age of 55, leaving their son, Stefano, to manage Minikim, the company overseeing the cartoon's rights. Bill Asprey continues to illustrate the beloved cartoons, which remain popular today, except on Sundays.

Reflecting on this legacy, I was reminded of a touching story by Michael Chief on Medium. He crafted origami cranes, inscribing notes for his girlfriend and placing them in a jar as a heartfelt gift. This narrative brought back memories of the "Love Is..." cartoons that graced the newspapers I read during my youth. My eldest sister often cut them out, preserving them in a tin under her bed.

These affectionate expressions hold deep significance for both the giver and the receiver. Kim stumbled upon a successful venture through her creativity but ultimately faced the loss of her beloved. I also experienced a profound loss when my sister passed away at just 37. Therefore, my message to you is clear: do not just pause to appreciate the beauty around you—express your feelings to loved ones and friends every single day.

Chapter 2: A Call to Action

In this modern age, let us not forget the timeless value of expressing our emotions. Love should be shared openly and often.

The second video, "Love Is BS (Official Lyric Video)," offers a contemporary perspective on love, prompting us to reflect on our own experiences and connections.