"A GIFT OF THE HEART"

"Letting People Know You Love Them"

"It is easy to take our feelings for granted and assume that the people we care about know how we feel about them. While they are often quite cognizant of our feelings, saying "I love you" is a gift we should give to our loved ones whenever we can. Letting others know how we feel about them is an important part of nurturing any kind of loving relationship. Few tire of being told they are loved; and saying "I love you" can make a world of difference in someone's life, take a relationship to a new level, or reaffirm and strengthen a steady bond. Everyone needs to hear "I love you." Three simple words: I....Love....You. When you declare your love for others, you proclaim that you care for them in the most significant way. It can be difficult to convey your affection using words, particularly if you grew up around people who never expressed it verbally. But you should never be afraid to say "I love you" or worry that doing so will thrust you into a position of excessive vulnerability. It is important to share your feelings with those who matter to you. Part of the fulfillment that comes with loving someone is telling him or her that you do. Love exists to be expressed, not withheld. If you care for someone, let the person know. Do not be afraid of the strength of your emotions or worry that your loved one will not feel the same way. "I love you" is often best said to another without expectation of a return on this investment. Since each one of us is filled with an abundance of love, there is never any concern that you will run out of it if these words are not repeated back to you. Saying "I love you" is a gift of the heart sent directly to the heart of the recipient. Even though it may not always look that way, this is an offering that is always unconditional and given without strings attached. That is the true essence of the gift "I love you."
By: Madisyn Taylor