by Buffy

Created on: August 28, 2007

'I love you'. Three small words, yet they can mean so many different things.

It depends on who says I love you', how it's said, when it's said, and (sometimes) why it's said.

My husband shows his love for me by helping me with household chores when he sees that I'm tired at the end of the day. This means way more to me than if he were to say 'I love you' on his way through to the couch!

My daughter shows her love for me by including me in her life; we shop together, go to movies and dinner, etc. and I feel that she values our friendship as much as I do. Her actions constantly say 'I love you' although she very rarely says the words.

As a woman, hearing the words 'I love you' from a man can mean absolutely nothing at all. It depends on why he is saying the words, and when. My husband brings me flowers when he knows I'm upset, tired or worried. His actions and consideration says 'I love you', because the flowers bring me joy.

The language of love is very rarely a spoken language - it is a language of behavior. We behave ourselves into loving and trusting relationships, and unfortunately all too often we behave ourselves right out of them.

So, I believe the greatest way to say 'I love you' is to show kindness, consideration and respect to your partner. They will know you love them without you having to say a word. Resting on the couch, watching my husband clean the kitchen, says 'I love you' much louder than if he actually said the words. It comes down to honoring your partner and acknowledging their moods and feelings. That's what says "I love you'.

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