The quote highlights the distinction between love and need, suggesting that while need may cloak itself with affection, it is fundamentally different from true love. Need implies a dependency, often driven by personal desires or motives, rather than genuine care for another person. This warning serves as a reminder to be cautious of those who approach us out of necessity, as their intentions may not be rooted in love.
The author, Jennifer L. Armentrout, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the underlying reasons behind someone's need for you. When someone relies on another out of need, their intentions can be manipulative or self-serving, rather than selfless. Therefore, it's crucial to discern between authentic emotional connections and relationships founded on dependency.