by Jon D. Goldberg, San Quentin State Prison, CA
The first time I told a non-family member I love you was to my first girlfriend that I thought was serious. Young love in the sixth grade. Her name was the Tina Foss. I will never forget her.
Now that I am grown I realize I didn’t know love outside my family until I met my ex-wife. It was truly love at first sight. To find love is exhilarating, life changing and awesome. When you feel compelled to say it, it comes easy.
When I first said it I was young and didn’t really know the power those words carry. I had feelings but couldn’t identify them or express them. I was 10 or 11 years old and I believe it was over the phone the first time. Then I said it in person. I was nervous and anxious but she was so special to me.
I actually looked her up years later. She had married and had a daughter. I am so happy she found love and became successful. I still think about what life would have been like if we were able to stay together and she didn’t move away. I would have done anything for her. She was on my mind. She was my first love.
Over the years love has lost a lot of its meaning. It’s easy to say, but the truth comes out in action. Love is so much more than just words.
When you love something you have to let it go and be thankful for the opportunity to share the love. It is life changing and all about growth, but can be taken away in a heartbeat.