I have never directly said "I love you," mostly because I didn't want to put out a statement that seemed to beg for a reply. I'm not sure a direct declaration of love from her would be anything but destabilizing to me, due to my own issues, and I believe she is aware of that.

But I have referred often to my love for her, and to my recognition of the love she shows me with her attunement and presence and consistent, gentle approach. The saying of it means less than the feeling of it, and I feel it every time I am with her.