While digging through old journals and writings, I came across this poem that I wrote a few years ago. It is rather simplistic and slightly dramatic (pardon my emo high school self), but I find the theme to be incredibly applicable even after years have passed. While this poem focuses on how the words "I love you" do not mean anything without the support of loving actions, the reverse is equally applicable. I believe that love is not something that is demonstrated through declarations or grand gestures, but rather through the small moments of daily life. Recognizing the accomplishments of a person you love or even just saving them a slice of pizza without being asked are the truest ways that you can tell someone you love them, in my opinion. Sometimes these kinds of little deeds go unnoticed or undocumented, but that is what love is to me: thinking of someone else, without having to be rewarded or recognized, in the subtleties of everyday life.

You say "I love you" like it's a formality

Like it's an obligation

And once it has been said, your responsibilities are fulfilled

But I would much rather you save the last piece of pizza for me because you know it is my favorite.

Or calm me down when I'm upset

Instead of mumbling under your breath

I catch the words "dramatic" and "dumb"

Though they are only a mutter, they are loud enough that I know you wanted them to be heard.

You kill me skillfully when I show you the things I am proud of

I study your face for a glimmer of pride, but I never find it

You shrug instead and offer me nothing more than a simple "huh"

Before you continue with your much more important activities

You continue, and I can't tell if you notice that you've knocked the breath from my chest with your passionless response

So it is not hard to understand that, with your cold voice and empty eyes,

Somehow "I love you" means nothing at all.