Reciprocate.

To return like for like (according to dictionary.com), a kiss for a kiss , and a smile for a smile.

I recently heard about the Cup Theory of love where the underlying concept is that love is finite. We are born with a cup (our hearts) that is filled with liquid (love). In a relationship where affection is present, the liquid is poured into one another's love cup. You know you're in a healthy relationship if the liquid in each of your cup is balanced. When the liquid/love is skewed the relationship suffers and ends. What is left in your cup represents the baggage that you carry to the next relationship.

Picture this though. The woman expresses her affection through cooking nightly dinners for the man she adores. He gets home tired (and without an appetite) from work and all he wants is a massage but he's too polite to ask. By this time the woman is tired and is ready to rest. After dinner he tucks her into bed and kisses her good night. The daily cycle continues. Misunderstanding, lack of communication and different perception of love.

The fact is that love (given and received) takes time and energy - both of which are finite in a day and finite in a lifetime. We do not have the luxury of infinite time and energy. Therefore we must understand his/her perception of love before we reciprocate. Otherwise it becomes a wasted gesture that will lead to "does he love me?" thoughts, tears and regret.