Sometimes we smile at the world—either entirely aware or completely unaware of our awkward vulnerability. Sure, humans are feeble, impressionable creatures, but they are also very loving beings. Showing affection is a natural form of expression—yet love is more than a conscious habit or a daily ritual in our relationships. Love is something that takes time, effort, and presence.
Consider the way Leia Organa told Han Solo she loved him in “The Empire Strikes Back.” Han’s simple reply? “I know.” Love comes in all shapes and sizes, in a myriad of endless forms and languages. What else is love, than something that sounds like a feeling, envelopes others closely, and is shown with or without a verbal mantra? Let’s glance over a brief list of ways to show love without saying it.
Zip It and Just Listen
Sometimes we may fear that we will backflip out of our personalities—or show cracks in our masks to the wrong person at the wrong time. Putting oneself in a position of vulnerability is no easy feat. If someone you love opens up to you, stay close and listen. Your presence at their side is an expression of love—not to mention your willingness to open up your ear when it’s their time to be heard.
Bringing a soothing presence of support to others portrays everyday intentions of dignity and integrity. There are different ways to help people and to fix situations, and often at the moment, your loved one commiserating with you is the best possible solution. Validate the feelings of who you love without throwing out advice. Your attentive presence says “I’m here for you,” which truly says it all.
Be Present When You’re Together
In the same fashion, tangible presence speaks wonders. Life is often so incredibly hectic, and at times derails one’s plans or sends people drifting apart like passing ships in the night. When you have the opportunity to be together with someone you love, do it, and be fully, unconditionally present.
Being together in the moment is one of the best ways to show love without saying it. If this last year has taught us anything, we’ve surely learned that experiences and people should never be taken for granted. Make memories today you can both hold dear tomorrow.
Pay Attention To the Small Things
Individuals often deem minuscule things to be of little significance, but truly, those tiny details often do matter. As long as you’re not toying the line between obsession and affection, the art of attentiveness is valuable when you go out of your way for another. This expression of love is a clear-cut reminder that you care and that a specific person matters to you immensely.
Fix your loved one a delish meal after a long, hard day, or plan the perfect picnic date for your significant other this coming weekend. Pick up their favorite treats, ask about their family, or queue up a song from their favorite band on your playlist. These small details remind them that you’ve both on the same wavelength in life—and that they are never alone when surfing through the unknown depths.
