The world recently bid a solemn farewell to the man believed to be responsible for arguably the most romantic photo ever taken. Glenn McDuffie, who claimed to be the sailor in the Times Square kissing photo taken during a celebration after the World War II victory, was 86 when he died. Through an act of sheer joy when he was much younger (and thanks to a camera man positioned at exactly the right place and time), McDuffie left behind an iconic image that will forever move us to experience all the feelings.

What other popular photos have a way of sparking romantic inspiration within us? The pictures below are incredible not only for the images themselves, but additionally for what they represent, the compassion they evoke and the lessons they teach us about unconditional love.

1. Act in the moment and embrace the unexpected. Spontaneity can go a very, very long way. 2. Sometimes a smile is the only "I love you" that's needed. 3. Love doesn't always last forever. The point, sometimes, is just that it happened at all. 4. In moments of turmoil, love can heal and calm most things. Take refuge in it when needed. 5. Don't run at the first sign of trouble. Fight for what you know is meant to be. 6. With the right person by your side, possibilities are limitless. Choose a partner, not a trophy. 7. If there's no room for silliness and being yourself-ness, something isn't right. 8. Don't settle for anything less than what you know you deserve. 9. Seize opportunities to create together and share your talents. Note: Magic could happen. 10. Be proud of your love. Be confident and secure, and show it to the world. Marine Sgt. Brandon Morgan returns home and leaps for joy upon seeing his partner in Hawaii, 2012. Photo via Gay Marines Facebook page.11. Be with someone who brings out the best in you and shines equally by your side. 12. Give proper goodbyes. You can't predict today; leave with more than a flick of the wrist. 13. Break every rule, write your own scripts and push through until your dreams are realized. 14. Love shows its true colors in moments that test your strength and commitment. 15. The most unwarranted of circumstances can still see happy endings. Hold onto hope. 16. Kiss often -- a little PDA is not necessarily a bad thing.
18. Because if you nurture love delicately, through all its faults and rarity, it can last a lifetime. Gloria Bullard, the woman believed to be in Eisenstaedt's original Times Square photo, and World War II fighter pilot Jerry Yellin reenact the image on the anniversary of V-J Day in New York City, 2013. Photo by Emmanuel Dunand for Getty Images.

Plus, a little cheese never hurt anybody...

17. And don't ever let anyone tell you whom you can or cannot love.