Expressing Love: A Father’s Emotional Realisation Through His Son’s Honest Words

Updated on July 6, 2025

Expressing love is something most of us try to do daily, whether it’s through words, actions, or gestures. We tell our children we love them, we smile at our partners, we support our friends—but how often do we stop and ask ourselves: Do they feel the love we’re expressing? This blog is based on a personal experience that shook me to the core, reminding me that expressing love is only half the story. It’s the feeling of love that truly matters.

The Power and Purpose of Expressing Love

Expressing love is the bridge that connects hearts and builds emotional security in any relationship. It is not enough to feel love within—we must let others know they are cherished, valued, and important to us. Whether through words like “I love you,” thoughtful gestures, acts of kindness, or physical affection like a warm hug, expressing love strengthens bonds and creates a sense of belonging. Especially in families, children thrive emotionally when parents consistently express love in ways that are clear and meaningful. It builds their self-worth and helps them feel safe, supported, and understood.

However, the way we express love must align with the needs and emotional language of the person receiving it. Some people feel most loved through verbal affirmation, while others respond to quality time, acts of service, or physical touch. Simply repeating words or performing kind gestures without genuine emotion can feel hollow or forced. Expressing love must come from a sincere place—when it does, it not only deepens relationships but also encourages emotional growth and mutual trust. Love that is expressed authentically becomes a love that is remembered and felt for a lifetime.

Expressing love is something many believe is simple—spoken words, a gentle touch, or kind gestures. Yet, the impact of those expressions often depends not on the act itself, but on whether the other person truly feels that love. A recent interaction between a father and his ten-year-old son brought this truth into sharp focus. The child upset over a small issue, was gently comforted with the words, “Daddy is here with you. Daddy loves you.” These words, filled with emotion, were meant to soothe. However, the boy’s calm response—“I think daddy loves me. But only daddy knows whether you love me or not,”—revealed something deeper.

That single sentence carried an unexpected depth. It pointed to a silent gap between expressing love and the experience of it. Expressions may be visible or audible, but their effect lies in how they are received. In that moment, it became clear that love not truly felt might as well remain unspoken. The scene was not about whether love existed, but whether it had reached the heart of the one it was intended for.

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Love Without Depth Is Just Performance

In many relationships, expressions of love can become rehearsed habits. They may be driven by social etiquette or personal gain rather than heartfelt emotion. A polite “How are you?” spoken without listening for the answer, or a compliment meant to flatter rather than affirm, are common examples. When love is reduced to performance, it loses its meaning. The outer appearance may remain pleasant, but the emotional connection is missing.

Real love requires intention and awareness. It is not limited to words, nor is it proven by public display. Genuine expressions of love come from a place of quiet conviction. A friend who does not speak affectionately yet shows up in moments of need, who listens without judgment, and offers presence without conditions—this is love in action, unadorned and true.

When Love Is Not Obvious But Deeply Real

Then again, some people don’t express love in typical ways. I have a close friend like that. He’s not warm in words. He doesn’t use affectionate language. He rarely shows emotion. You wouldn’t label him a “loving” person at first glance.

But when I lost my mother, he came running upon hearing the news. He didn’t say a word. He just placed a hand on my shoulder and stood by my side. In that moment of silent support, I felt more love than any spoken “I love you” could ever give.

This showed me that expressing love doesn’t always need words. Sometimes, presence is more powerful than any phrase.

Love Is Recognised Through Feeling, Not Words

While language and action help in expressing love, the real measure lies in the emotional impact. Does the person being loved truly feel secure, valued, and cherished? In the earlier example, the child’s reply showed that even words of affection could miss their mark if not felt deeply. This highlights a universal truth: love must be expressed in the language that resonates with the receiver.

Every individual has a unique emotional language. Some respond to words, others to time spent, and some to quiet support. The absence of emotional understanding creates distance, even where love is present. Expressing love, therefore, should not follow a template. It must be thoughtful, intentional, and adapted to each heart it seeks to touch.

The Silent Strength of Unspoken Love

Not all love needs to be verbalised. In some cases, love finds its strength in silence. A father who sits quietly beside his grieving child, a friend who touches a shoulder without saying a word—these gestures often carry the weight of a thousand sentences. Such expressions, though silent, often go deeper than elaborate declarations.

The essence of love lies in presence. In times of sorrow, helplessness, or joy, what matters most is knowing someone is there—not just physically, but emotionally. That deep presence is the purest form of love, often remembered long after it fades.

The Real Test: Do They Feel What You Express?

No matter how you express love—through touch, words, gifts, time, or acts of service—the important thing is this: Does the other person feel genuinely loved by you? That’s the ultimate test.

You must express love in a way your children understand—through time spent, through active listening, through being there, not just in body, but in spirit and attention.

Let’s Reflect Honestly

• Are my smiles and gentle words truly connected to love?
• Am I expressing love to impress, to fulfil an obligation, or because I feel it inside?
• When I say “I love you,” is my heart fully involved, or am I just following a pattern?

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Conclusion

Expressing love is essential in building meaningful relationships, but its true power lies in how it makes the other person feel. Words and gestures, though important, must be rooted in genuine emotion. Without authenticity, love becomes a performance. When love is expressed with sincerity and emotional presence, it not only touches the heart, but it also stays there.

In a world filled with noise, what stands out are moments of quiet, intentional love. The kind that needs no explanation. The kind that is felt more than spoken. The kind that remains long after the moment has passed. So the question remains: Is love merely being expressed, or is it truly being felt?

FAQs on Expressing Love

1. Why is expressing love important in relationships?
Expressing love builds trust, emotional connection, and a sense of security. It shows others they matter and that you care deeply. Without expression, love may remain unnoticed or misunderstood.

2. Can someone feel unloved even if you express love?
Yes. If the expression doesn’t match the person’s emotional needs or love language, they may not feel the love you’re trying to give. Understanding how they receive love is crucial.

3. What are some ways to express love beyond words?
Simple actions like listening attentively, spending quality time, helping with tasks, giving thoughtful gifts, or even silent presence during tough times are powerful ways to express love.

4. How do I know if my child feels loved?
Children often feel loved when parents are emotionally available, spend time with them, and listen without judgment. Watch their reactions—if they feel secure and joyful around you, your love is reaching them.

5. What if someone never expresses love but truly feels it?
It’s possible. Some people love deeply but struggle with expression. Still, it’s important to find at least a few meaningful ways to express that love so others aren’t left guessing.

Thank you for taking the time to explore this post. I hope you found it both insightful and enjoyable.

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PVM

Mathukutty P. V.

Mathukutty P. V. is the founder of Simply Life Tips, a blogger, content writer, influencer, and YouTuber passionate about learning and sharing. Guided by “Simple Living, Creative Thinking,” he believes in the power of knowledge sharing and lifelong learning.

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