When I was growing up, the words "I love you" weren't really in my vocabulary. I didn't say them to my parents, to my brother, to my friends, or even really to my girlfriends. That phrase just really made me feel uncomfortable. My wife on the other hand, tells everyone that she loves them and she really, truly means it. It has been such an interesting thing to witness over the years.

This got me thinking about those three words and why we hold onto them so tightly, as if we can't say them to anyone unless it's really "important". What does that even mean? When is it important really? I find men especially have a really hard time expressing these kinds of feelings unless it is to their romantic partner. Saying it to their friends and acknowledging how much they mean to them, for some reason feels too open. It's hard to be so vulnerable and I absolutely understand it.

I've been testing this out lately and put forward a challenge to myself to tell those around me that I love them, and it has made such a profound impact. Not just on me (because it makes me feel good), but you can see the change in the person that you're telling, "I love you," to. There's a softness, a vulnerability that creeps in and it's such a wonderful feeling.

So give it a try. Tell someone you love them, and don't worry about whether they say it back. Just let them know that you value them and don't be attached to the outcome.

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