I love you

Those three little words are the most powerful ones but the ones we are most scared of. We are scared that once we gently say them aloud, we will be rejected.

I will always remember my house-mate who was the most loving individual I have ever known. She was also equally gentle with her words, and she wasn't scared to express how she truly felt. You knew that when she said she loved you, she meant it.

This was a shock to me at first. I didn't know how to deal with her honesty and vulnerability.  With time, however, I've come to see the importance of expressing those words. If you are blessed to have a true friend, then they should know that you love them. It shouldn't only be something that comes out of your mouth when you think you might loose them or not see them again.

We all need to be appreciated, showed we are cared for and loved. No matter how much of a tough facade you put on.

And if that friend that you so dearly love doesn't value your friendship as much, that doesn't invalid your sentiment.

The ability to love is so beautiful. You appreciate and are grateful for this unique person. There is no shame in loving your friends. There is no shame in loving your enemies, for even these people show you something about yourself.

Now, by this I don't mean go out there and say 'I love you' with such ease as you say 'I am hungry'. These words are powerful and their power ought to be shared appropriately, because it is through loving others that you are able to love yourself.