M.E.M.

L-word

\"It\'s too good

and rare a feeling

to cheapen with overuse.\"

-Turtles All the Way Down

I say it to my parents every night,

sure,

but it\'s a reflex.

A parent\'s love is unconditional.

The love a child has for their parents

is instantaneous.

It doesn\'t manifest over time

as other loves do.

I guard this word well.

Holding it close to my heart.

I\'ve only ever said

The words

first,

once.

That led to heartbreak,

and pain.

I have not said them first

since.

No.

I don\'t want to go through that again.

So I don\'t say it.

I won\'t say it.

I will not cheapen that feeling again.