being understood is far more meaningful than being loved. because someone can love you and still not understand you at all. love can happen slowly over time, but understanding takes real effort. it means choosing to listen, to pay attention, to notice the things that others miss. when someone knows your habits, your feelings, your fears, and still chooses to stay with you, that's something deeper. that's the kind of connection that makes you feel seen and accepted in ways love alone cannot give.