Peter, I have been struggling with this concept of love and living in the moment. Your comment, “Does the elimination of the ego and desire leave us so empty that we no longer expect or even ask for better?” especially struck me. In my particular situation, I am seeing a couple’s counselor with my girlfriend. This is my first real attempt at a healthy relationship and my first attempt since starting my Buddhist practice. There are certain key aspects basically missing from our relationship. Our friendship is very strong. The “in love” part of the relationship needs a lot of work. However, at almost any given moment I can say, “I am ok.” and that’s the truth. However, overall I am unhappy with my relationship missing these key aspects of a love relationship. I struggle to converge my desire and need for a truly healthy loving relationship with being ok with a friendship in the moment-to-moment of daily life. I want better. I have asked for better. I feel my ego is controlling this desire and at the same time, love relationships are based on certain factors being present. I am happy, yet not. UGH!