It's inevitable: we all love being told that we are loved. It's one of the sweetest things to hear in this world. Someone knows you so well inside and out, and they still choose to stay and care about you through it all. They've seen you in your worst state and at your greatest. They know who you are and who you want to become. Although hearing those three words may feel like a small miracle, actions speak louder than words when it comes to love. Because, although it may be sad, it takes more than saying it to prove it.
Whether it's a parent, a sibling, a friend, or even a significant other, it's all the same; if your love for someone is true, you don't need to verbally express it every day. It's the little things that mean the most, as cliche as that sounds.
If you are too afraid to tell someone you love them, consider paying attention to detail and showing them through your memory that you care enough to pick up on their interests and "about me" facts. Memorize their coffee order and surprise them with one. Bring up something about them that you love that they had no idea they even did. For example, how their nose wrinkles up when they laugh. Playfully make fun of them for something that they talk about all the time. Make sure it's out of love, not actually insulting. Refer to their favorite sandwich or style of clothing as "the *Sally* sandwich" or "a *Sally* shirt." All of these gestures will ensure that you pay attention more than they may realize. If anything, it will be a clear message showing the person you love that you like who they are and care about them enough to stick around even though they are super quirky or weird -- and you love them for being that way.
Another way of showing that you care about someone without actually telling them is by being willing to help them out in any situation. At the drop of a hat, you are willing to go the extra mile to assist them in whatever it is they need. If their car is in the shop, offer to give them a ride to work. Lend them that $20 they need because they only have their debit card on them. Pick them up from the airport because you know taking the train home is a huge hassle. Be there for your person no matter what the situation and you are sure to prove to them that you love them. After all, it's hard to resist loving the type of person who would give you the shirt off their back.
I'm not trying to sway you away from telling someone you love them. It's hard not to after you have already told them before. Everyone loves to hear that they are loved, even if it's just a quick "love ya" before hanging up the phone. In dark times, being told that you are loved could be the light at the end of your tunnel that you have been searching for. However, I believe that showing how you feel to those you love is equally, if not more important. The words "I love you" only mean something if they are proven true. Without supporting actions, those words become meaningless and dry. Be sure to show the people you love how much you truly care each and every day!
