As a child, you probably thought it was totally embarrassing to say I love you to your mom. The most embarrassing thing was being at a friend’s house and saying it before you hung up. Well, that may have been your thoughts, but it was never mine.
Even though we were a family that was tough as nails, my mom had the voice of an angel. She wasn’t always saying the most pleasant things, but her tone was soft. One thing I could always count on from my mom was her to say, “I love you.” No matter how long or short the phone conversation, she always ended with those three words.
During my teen years, I lost my mom. There was no more “I love you” at the end of a phone call, so I didn’t say it anymore either. After my father passed away, I started repeating it. I make a special effort to say it to uncles, aunts, friends, cousins, and siblings. Some don’t know how to react when I say these words to them, but others say it in return. To me, hearing it back makes the day better.
I know that it’s a small gesture. For some, it’s just a quick sign-off to ending a call. No matter whether I am unlocking the front door or carrying the groceries, I always say it. Sure, some are shocked to hear my sentiments, but most reciprocate in a warm voice that brings a smile to my face.
See, I realized that you never know when that phone call may be the last time you talk to a person. I lost both my mother and my father, so it’s a reality that I have become accustomed too. While losing a loved one makes my stomach turn, it has also opened my eyes and gave me a reality check that I needed.
These days, when we have family get-togethers, we always say “I love you” before anyone leaves. Saying it face-to-face means so much more. If someone goes up to lay down for the evening, we still give hugs with these three little words. We make sure there is always a proper goodbye because we are not promised tomorrow. I am lucky because I get to see my family many times during the week.
However, these sentiments have become our new normal. Sad that it had to happen from tragedy, but I have a reason to be thankful for the tragic times because they showed me how important it is to live in the moment. I never take those moments for granted either.
It saddens me that many families don’t really show love like they should. There are no hugs, no kisses on the cheek, and no “I love you.” I am not the most affectionate type of person. However, I don’t hesitate to grab the ones I love dearly and hug their neck. I made the effort to show my parents everyday how much I loved them while they were here. I just wish I would have said it more in person than only on the phone.
There are no second chances in life. When someone passes away, your relationship ends forever. There is not the ability to touch their face, feel the warmth of their embrace or can pick up the phone and call them. Thankfully, love is something that never ends. The love that you shared can be a bond that holds tight at both ends. It can stretch throughout eternity, and some say it grows stronger. Why not take time out of your day and make sure you tell those that you love how much you care? Wouldn’t the world be a better place if there was more love?
Did this strike a chord with you? Was this a bit too close to home for comfort? Then click Liked Video to let those you care about know just how much you love them
