I Love You
February 12th, 2025
Writer: Allie Perlman
Editor: Tessa Tacoma
“Good night momma, I love you”
“Love you Allie, goodnight”
“Good night dad, I love you ”
“Love you Allie Girl, night night”
“Good night Rexy”
“Night Al, love you too”
Above is a typical Tuesday night conversation in my family group chat. I am a creature of habit: when the world around me constantly changes, I always find solace in routine. One of my most prized traditions is having the last thing I say to my family before I go to sleep: "I love you.”
The routine started when I was little: I would dread the moments my parents came into my room to say goodnight. I would cry and cry, begging them to stay by my side. Then, one night, my mom told me “I am going to say I love you, and that love will stick with you throughout the night.” Thus a tradition was born. This routine stayed with me no matter where I went, whether it be sleepovers, sleepaway camps, or college. No matter the distance between me and my family, an “I love you” has always been a lifeline that leads me home
An “I love you” is not just those three simple words. Instead, it is the actions you have taken, to make that person believe in your love. It is showing up at their door in the middle of the day to surprise them with their favorite food. It is taking pride in their accomplishments as if they are your own. It is listening to them complain about the most trivial thing for the hundredth time because you promised to always be there for them.
My “I love yous” used to be reserved just for my family, but throughout my life, more and more people have found their way into the circle of those who I love. My high school experience was one of many ups and downs, but at the end of my senior year I was able to find those worthy of my “I love yous”. When coming to college from out of state, one of my biggest fears was being far away from my people. However, throughout the months, my college “I love yous” have slipped into my life. Ann Arbor has blossomed into a home, brimming with warmth and connection, all due to those priceless people. To all my “I love yous”, old and new, thank you for everything, as always, I love you.
Photo Credits: Zoe Romeu
