Love is

Love is having strong feelings for someone even though they might be able to hurt you. This includes family. It's about being vulnerable.

My sister texted my mom, after a lifetime of abuse, to just be honest with her. To have a conversation about it. Not even to admit the wrongdoing, not even to apologize, but just to say - I'm open to having this conversation right now.

My mom sent a 'gif' of flowers back and said: flowers are used when words fail.

My sister is giving up. When they've hurt you too much, it is time to let go of the relationship.

Love is a two-way street, and it involves two individuals who care about each other and want the best for each other. It doesn't include abuse. It doesn't include apologizing for such abuse. In my opinion, once you've abused, you've shown what you want.

And you don't want the other person.

Love is compromise. It's not sending a 'gif' and hoping it heals after thirty years. It's about everything you've done, they've done. To show they want you in their life. That you want them. It's about being vulnerable to what you've done wrong. It's about being vulerable about your boundaries and what you need from the other person.

Love is genuine. You can feel it, and you know it's there. Accept it for what it is, but remember: you deserve it, no matter what.

Love is feeling out of control, but in a good way. And when it comes back to bite you, just remember that your feelings are valid and that sometimes, others can't reciprocate. But that it's not your fault.

You deserve more than a gif. Your love is something tangible, to be devoured by those who seek it and who deserve you.