Things I Should Say

A heartfelt poem that reminds us to express love, gratitude, and truth before it's too late.

I always find it hard to say, The things that mean the most.

Short Poems & Quotes | Poems | Short Love Poems | Love Poems For Him | Things I Should Say

Updated January 20, 2025, by Catherine Pulsifer

Sometimes the words that mean the most are the hardest to say. Whether it’s “I love you,” “I need you,” or even a simple “I’m sorry,” these heartfelt expressions can feel like mountains to climb. Julie Hebert’s poem Things I Should Say captures this struggle so beautifully, reminding us how important it is to speak up while we can.

This poem challenges us to overcome hesitation and fear, to share the words that matter. Life moves quickly, and time waits for no one. By choosing to open our hearts and express what we feel, we can deepen our relationships and live with fewer regrets.

Let this poem inspire you to reflect on the words you’ve been holding back. Today is the perfect day to tell someone how much they mean to you. Don’t let another moment pass without saying the things that truly matter.

Things I Should Say

Poet: Julie Hebert, © 2011

I always find it hard to say,
The things that mean the most.
I love you, need you, I'm sorry, I'm lonely,
Are just some that are utmost.

I don't know why these seem to be,
So hard to say to you.
It's not like I'm being forced to say,
Something that isn't true.

I guess some things that should be said,
Make me feel uneasy.
But this excuse has got to go,
As this should be quite easy.

So now I must tell you something,
That's so very true.
I do love you, and I do need you,
And I'm sorry, sooner I did not tell you.

Life is short, and time moves fast,
Regrets can weigh us down.
But opening hearts and speaking truth,
Turns sorrow into a crown.

From this day on, I'll never wait,
To share what's in my heart.
No words unsaid, no love withheld,
Each moment, a fresh start.

Key Messages from this poem:

Expressing Feelings Takes Courage but Is Worth It
The poem highlights how difficult it can be to share our deepest feelings, even when they are true and meaningful. It encourages us to overcome that hesitation and speak openly from the heart because these words have the power to strengthen our relationships.

Life Is Too Short for Regrets
The poem reminds us that time moves quickly, and unspoken words can lead to regret. By speaking our truths now - whether it’s love, apologies, or appreciation - we avoid carrying the burden of "what ifs" in the future.

Every Moment Is a Chance for a Fresh Start
The poem inspires us to embrace each day as an opportunity to be more open and authentic. Choosing to express love and gratitude today can bring healing and joy, making every moment meaningful.

These messages remind us of the importance of speaking up, cherishing time, and living with a heart full of love and truth.

Related Pages:

What Is Love Poems - If Things I Should Say inspires you to reflect on your feelings, explore poems that dive into the true essence of love and how it shapes our lives.

I Love You Poems - Struggling to say "I love you"? These poems provide heartfelt inspiration and creative ways to express the words that matter most.

Valentine Poems For Him - For those looking to speak their hearts this Valentine's Day, these poems perfectly complement the message of expressing love from Things I Should Say.

Love Poems For Husband - When it’s time to share your love and gratitude with your husband, these poems pair beautifully with the theme of speaking what’s in your heart.

As Life Grows Shorter, Love Grows Stronger - Reflect on how time strengthens love and why it’s so important to express those feelings today, as echoed in Things I Should Say.

Birthday Poems For Husband - Birthdays are a perfect time to share the words that mean the most. These poems will inspire you to make his day extra special, in line with the message of speaking up from the heart.

Embrace each day as an opportunity to be more open and authentic.

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