Three Simple Words
posted in Words |Yes, the three simple words I am referring to are “I love you.”
These three words can turn a sour moment into something beautiful. They can diffuse anger, ease frustration, deliver smiles, warm hearts, bring comfort and give someone great joy. When used correctly, these three words are powerful.
As I shared earlier, I recently returned from a vacation in California where I was able to visit my old haunts and see friends and family. I am quick to admit that there is nothing like a warm embrace from a long-time friend followed by, “I love you” to make me feel missed. How I cherish my friendships.
While I was there my daughter and I stayed with one of my closest friends (an old college roommate) and her family. What a blessing to be welcomed into their home.
My girlfriend has just had her second beautiful baby – her other child is a 5 year old gorgeous boy. As any new mother knows it is so easy to get caught up with the daily needs of a newborn and let everything else fade into the background. But, I noticed that my girlfriend makes a concerted effort not to let her newborn’s needs over shadow her son’s.
She is constantly saying to her son, “Hey little man, I love you.” Even when the baby is fussy, crying and demanding her attention Mom never forgets to let her son know he too is cherished.
What stood out to me even more is that during times of discipline my girlfriend never loses sight of her love for her son. She would often say, “Honey, because I love you I can’t let you do that. The answer is still no” or “Little man, I told you not to do that, but you did it anyway. I love you, but you need to sit in time out.” Amazing.
I would be remiss if I didn’t also point out that dad does the same thing. Almost every series of interactions is preceded with “I love you.”
There is no doubt that these kids will know they are treasured. I am sure, as with every family, there will be times of testing and times when Mom and Dad’s love is pushed to the limit, but I know these kids will be confident they have a safe place where they are cared for and loved … a place to which they can always return.
Three simple words can make such a great impact. I love that I got to see my girlfriend’s family in action. Love is the underlying current of everything they do.
I didn’t grow up in a home where “I love you” was ever spoken so I had to learn to express myself as an adult. I am so thankful I did. There are few feelings as good as the one that comes from giving and receiving an “I love you.”
These three simple words can make all the difference. Who do you need to say them to today? Choose a Better Life by letting someone know you love them. Regardless of whether or not your love is reciprocated, truly giving it to someone will brighten your day and impact theirs.