Three words — eight letters: “I love you.”
The phrase takes a matter of seconds to type or say, but the meaning behind it lasts a lifetime.
Growing up, I’d rarely say “I love you” to anyone. Of course I loved the people in my life, but I showed it in other ways, rather than saying the three words that summarized the everlasting feeling — it’s what I grew up surrounded by. It’s why I didn’t realize the impact that the phrase had until I couldn’t say it anymore.
As I grew older, I started telling my family I loved them every night before going to bed. It was just a quick “love you,” but I knew it made my grandparents light up. It took me losing the ability to see that light on my grandpa’s face to realize that I never wanted to feel that sense of regret again.
When my grandpa passed away, I realized all the things I should’ve said — all the times I should’ve reminded him that I love him. I continue to tell him I love him, whether it’s when I’m visiting his grave or sitting in my room staring at a picture frame. I continue to remind him that I will always love him, but I’d do anything to see the light on his face again.
Even though the phrase has become more commonly said, there isn’t a way to overuse “I love you.” It shouldn’t be said to just anyone, because then it loses its significance. But, when it comes to the right people, the phrase should be used as frequently as possible.
There’s no telling when it’ll be the last time someone hears those words or the last time someone has the ability to say them.
When I was at my lowest point while dealing with the grief of losing multiple loved ones, there was one phrase that shined light in the darkness: “I love you all the loves.” It may have just been a simple reminder that I was loved, but it kept me going.
Even if we haven’t had a chance to see each other, my best friend will text me “iloveu,” to show that no matter what, no space can come in between our friendship. My grandma will always respond to my “love you” with a “love you more.” My little sister texts me “good night, love u” every night before she goes to sleep. My teacher, who’s been like a mother, tells me she loves me every time I see her, even if she’s in the middle of a conversation.
Three words go a long way. Those three words make my grandma smile when she’s falling apart. Those three words reminded me that I was loved when I felt the opposite. Those three words aren’t just three words, they’re a lifeline — a constant reminder that no matter what happens, I am loved, and I will continue to love others.
