We can all agree that the words "I love you" make you feel all warm and fuzzy like a baby caterpillar. The words can come from family, friends, lovers, and even strangers. There are many other ways to express love, however, and sometimes there are better words than the word "love."

1. "Drive safely."

When someone tells you to drive safely you know that they are saying that they care about you. They worry about you getting hurt and want you to know that your well-being is important to them.

2. "I miss you."

If someone misses you that is truly love. The fact that you aren't around them makes them sad. They want you to be with them all the time and notice when you are absent. Anyone can say "love," but to tell someone that you miss them is a sign of truly caring.

3. "How was your day?"

This is a wonderful phrase because it expresses that they want to know about your day that they were not a part of. They want to better understand you. They want to hear about your life that they were not there to experience with you.

4. "I will be right there."

Someone dropping everything to come to your aid is stronger than just saying "I love you" because actions speak louder than words.

5. "I am glad you are here."

Appreciating your presence makes you understand that they value time spent with you. This makes you really feel all warm inside. They are happy that you are there to enjoy life with them and that they will have this memory forever.

6. "Are you okay?"

Asking about your happiness and actually caring about the answer shows love. It also displays concern about the other's well-being.

7. "You make me happy."

This is almost always better than "I love you" because love and happiness go together most of the time. Though, sometimes love doesn't always cause happiness. The fact that you make another person happy is far stronger than the just saying the word "love."

8. "I thought of you."

Remembering small things about another person is always special. We are all busy and someone telling you they paused to think of you is very meaningful!

9. "I forgive you."

Forgiveness is always hard and it takes strength to forgive someone. To have someone's forgiveness is a beautiful gift. They are willing to forgive you because they care so much about you that whatever you did can be forgiven.

10. "I respect you"

Respect is very important in any relationship. If someone respects you, they accept all that you are and let you live your best life. They respect your choices, lifestyle, and your thoughts. They don't try to change you and they support your passions in life. Respect is the base of love. Saying "I respect you" can mean more than "I love you" because you can love someone that you don't respect.