Those three infamous words that we all love to throw around like they hold no meaning. We say it to our boyfriend of one week, or that girl we go out with on the weekends but don’t actually like. We say it about our favorite movie or the pizza and wine we demolished last night watching the bachelorette. We catch ourselves saying it all the time, but the question is: when do we genuinely mean it? What does it mean to genuinely love someone you might ask? Well, I’m going to tell you what those three words mean to me.
“I love you” is the unconditional love from your parents. It is the way they still treasure you even when you aren’t always perfect. It is when your mom does your laundry and takes you to soccer practice every day. It is the home-cooked meal on the table every night that doesn’t get a second thought. It is when you grow up and finally realize that she is not only your mom, she’s your best friend.
“I love you” is when your dad holds your hand and tells you that you are the most beautiful girl in the world. It is when he decides he wants to be the coach of your team even though he didn’t play soccer his entire life. It’s the never-ending jokes, and it’s also the serious talks. He may not be as openly emotional as your mom, but these little things are enough to prove how much he loves you.
“I love you” is the unbreakable bond between your siblings. It is when your sister listens to you complain about your boy problems, or answers your phone calls at 3 a.m. just because you need someone to talk to. I love you is when your brother is over-protective and tells you your shorts are too short, so you have to go change. It is the reassurance that you will never be alone, because you have three siblings that have to love you no matter what.
“I love you” is the feeling of complete adoration from that one special person in your life. It is the way they smile the second they see you, or the way they kiss you after two long months apart. It is the way they hold you close when you cry. It is the way they make you laugh after a long day at work. It is the way they continue to love you after many years, through many ups and downs. This is a special kind of “I love you.”
“I love you” is also the abundant and everlasting love from our lord. He may not ever be able to verbally say these words to us, but he shows us in many ways. It is the family he gave you and the shelter over your head. It is the way he sent Christ his only son to die on a cross and forgive you for your sins. It is the promise of an everlasting life after death. All of the earthly love we experience during our lifetime stems from his love for us. This is the most amazing “I love you” of all.
So before you are quick to say these three words, think about what they really mean to you. They are much more powerful than you think.
