I Understand

"How do you know you're in love?" I asked my mom when I thought I was. Her reply confused me for a few years. "If you have to ask, it's not love." She winked and walked away. Now I understand. I understand the shortness of breath and blank mind when he walks in the room is love. I understand that his laugh and the way his voice sounds in the mornings is like a drug you can't get enough of. I know that love is when he thinks he's at his lowest. Raw feelings, crying because of an awful childhood memory, he doesn't push you away because all he wants in that moment is you. I'm no longer confused because I've found love. Not some jerk you made out with behind the school. Not a one night stand at your best friend's birthday. But someone who holds your head up while you throw up everything but your memories. Someone who holds you close when you have a panic attack so strong you shake. Someone who will go with you to scary doctor's appointments. Who will answer the phone at 3 in the morning because you had a nightmare and can't go back to sleep. Love is everything I've dreamed of and more. Don't let it go.