Since a young, innocent age, I was always taught the value of two prominent things: a promise and the words I love you. It's as if they are married to one another in holy matrimony. A promise is a sense of security that says, "You're going to be okay," while the words, "I love you," scream, "I will never betray you." Some might call it harsh, but at some point, you have to be willing to get the dedication across. I love you is not a trap, but I promise you is a commitment. Don't be intimidated as these two emotions can be addicting like a drug, but only if you are willing to trust fully in the process.

If I love you was a promise, you would still be here. I love you is often times overused. If I am being honest, I'm tired of hearing it. It's said in passing while on the way to the class you hate, at the end of every typical goodnight text and to the person you just met, but don't even like. You have to have a passion for the human being you are loving on. I love you means, I promise to never hurt you and I promise to never leave you. You can't promise the person in the hallway that you love them overnight. I have no problem with not saying, "I love you back." Yep, feel free to be like this girl is heartless. If you tell me that you love me... great! I will only say it back if I am willing to commit my soul to you. Some might say that I love too hard, but sadly, I don't think our society understands the severity of the words. I don't think anyone has ever connected the dots that it's a verbal promise. That doesn't give you the right to cut the tie because things get too hard.

If I love you was a band-aid, you wouldn't be hurting. Pain is beautiful. It's what shapes the human soul into depth. Don't let love fool you. It's a magical experience that traps you. Love can cure pain or it can be the reason that you become broken. One must be willing to take the risk to be able to buzz with pure satisfaction. If love breaks you, please know it is only temporary. That person who once loved you doesn't understand the innocent words of a promise. Promise me that you will never leave. Promise me you will forever love me. Those are the chilling words of a heart that wants to be wanted.

I love you is a promise. A promise means that you love someone, therefore, you are not going to break them. Value the words I love you and keep them close to your heart. If I love you was a promise, you would have a heart that flourishes. Never feel obligated to say, "I love you" back and please, protect your heart.