Love story – the term evokes thoughts of romance and passion, and, I dare say, sex. Modern romance is not shy about depicting the physical aspects of love, whether that romance is on-screen, on television, or between the pages of a book (or on the display of an e-reader). My own books depict love in its many forms, including the intensely carnal. And yet, one of the most touching love stories I’ve seen in recent years is the tale of Sheldon and Amy…yes, that Sheldon…and that Amy…the well-known characters on television’s The Big Bang Theory.

Now, I have to issue a disclaimer of sorts: I am a devoted fan of The Big Bang Theory. I look forward to each new episode – the fresh, witty writing, the terrific chemistry of the ensemble cast, and the brilliant performances of Jim Parsons and his fellow cast members draw me in. So, it’s quite likely that I’m biased. One of the aspects of the show that appeals to me the most is the evolution of Sheldon Cooper’s character over the course of the show. While still a most unconventional personality, Sheldon has grown through his interactions with his peers, especially those of the opposite sex. His interactions with Penny are priceless, depicting the impact of their friendship on Sheldon’s academia-centered personality, while the introduction of Sheldon’s girlfriend, Amy Farrah Fowler, has provided the opportunity to add a layer of tenderness to the character one might never have predicted in the first year or so of the series.

For those of you who are not familiar with the series, Sheldon Cooper is a genius, a scientific prodigy, but a man who’s had little interest in people in general and less interest in forming any bond with a woman. And yet, Sheldon has fallen for Amy. In his own unique way, Sheldon demonstrates his devotion to Amy in ways that are foreign to his nature and bring him out of his comfort-zone. Last week’s episode (May 9) was quite touching, as Sheldon displayed a quiet tenderness and dignity toward Amy that I found extremely moving. I won’t spoil it for you if you haven’t seen it yet, but I will tell you that Sheldon’s respect for Amy’s feelings was one of the most beautiful portrayals of love I’ve seen on television or in film. He’s stretching past the boundaries he’s lived with his entire life, not because he’s forced to, but because he genuinely wants to make Amy happy. And isn’t that really what love is all about? Caring about the one you love, giving of yourself, and treating your loved one with dignity and respect – those are key elements of true and enduring love. Sheldon demonstrates those qualities for Amy in ways that are both funny and touching. I, for one, am rooting for Sheldon and Amy, and I applaud Jim Parsons and Mayim Bialik for bringing this love story to life with comedic tenderness that makes me cheer for each new development in Sheldon and Amy’s slowly percolating romance.

Are you a Big Bang Theory fan? Share your thoughts on Sheldon and Amy or another love story you find touching and tender. I’d love to continue this discussion.