"to love is a choice we make whether it is in the realm of God’s creation or when we love our spouse, children, parents, friends, etc.."

You made a "choice" to love your spouse/children etc? I can only reiterate that I did not. No choice was offered to me. A moment did not come when I had a decision to make. It just happened.

However, when it comes to "strangers" - yes, it is (and must be) a choice to "love" them, in the sense of wishing and praying and working for their eternal happiness.