In Coelho's The Alchemist, what is the author saying about the role of love in general through the character of Fatima?

In
Coelho's , the author's message regarding love is two-fold. About love in
general, the reader learns that it is the one constant in the world. When the desert asks
Santiago to describe what love is, the theme of constancy is present in his answer. Love is what
links the falcon to man and man to the desert. Love is in all things of the world. Even the sun
remains distant from the world it loves so as not to cause it harm. Love is
everywhere.

With regard specifically to Fatima, Coelho seems to be saying
that those who love you will not get in your way or try to hold you back. They will wait
patiently as you follow the path that enables you to realize your dreams. The alchemist
(speaking of Fatima) tells Santiago:

 

Love never keeps a man from pursuing his personal legend. If he abandons that
pursuit, it's because it wasn't true love.

 

It is important to note that Santiago is devoted to Fatima, but
believes he must also pursue his Personal Legend. He does not ask her to wait...