Saying I love you back

[alwayskate]

My boyfriend recently told me he loved me and I smiled and said thank you, I'm not sure yet. We have been dating for 3 months and I do like him a lot but kind of thought that 3 months was not a long enough time...

 

So my question is, how do you know if you love someone? and does saying I love you mean I'm in love with you? I love many friends, family, etc, is there a subtle difference? I know each relationship is different and the things that define love vary person to person but... how do I know? He seems so sure...

 

Thank you!

[jason83]

Communication. This is THE biggest key in a successful relationship. Talk to him about it. It's better to be open than to keep one another wondering. Everyone feels different at different points....and for some those feelings of love may never come.

[Major]

You are an honest person and I respect that. Many people end up in relationships, heck, marriages simply because the other person expressed love for them. No one will have to tell you when you are in love with someone. YOU WILL KNOW based on what you want and how this person makes you feel when you are with them and the future you can see with this person. It's not something anyone can tell you. Do not allow yourself to be "guilted" in feeling a certain way that you do not. It's not fair to you, and it's certainly not fair to him. I contend that it's better to be truthful to him, because leading someone on, makes you the villian. However, although they may be hurt, that person can only respect you because you never led them to believe something that wasn't true. You have to be honest with yourself. Only you know how you truly feel. Being in love with someone is absolutely, amazing! Maybe that's how he feels. However, no one can be in a relationship alone. If you cannot give back to him what he is giving to you, don't punish yourself or him by denial, or delusion. It's not fair to either of you.