Word by Word

“What a curious power words have.”

Tadeusz Borowski

Growing up I don’t remember anyone in my family telling each other, I love you. Even after all these years, I am uncomfortable pushing those three words out.

Like so many times in my life, a teacher arrived when I was ready. Ann always said love ya as she left a gathering.  It was quick, casual, and had a note of sincerity to it.

My dearest friend, Ann, that stopped me in my tracks. At the time, I wasn’t even sure you liked me!

Okay, all my over-thinking friends, I know you can love someone and not like them This is one of those times I did not overthink. I chose to imitate her. I started saying love ya because it was comfortable for me. Each time I said those two words, the words flowed more freely.

Hold on a minute–I had just passed a lesson and here is another teacher entering my schoolhouse.

Last week, my friend, Sherry, posted a story about this topic. Her story was about her sister who believed without the “I” in the “love you” phrase, it does not count. Again, I had to stop and think. I was going to have to experiment.

Since reading this, I have placed an “I” in front of Love you.

Here is what I discovered:

  • Once again, I became uncomfortable. I realized there was a comfort curve–I am okay with that. It means it is an important lesson for me.
  • The addition of one powerful word, “I”, added weight to the statement.
  • Of all the phrases I use, I wanted this phrase to carry every single ounce of its power.

Word by word, lesson by lesson, I am growing.

Peace be with you, my friends.

I love you.