Leon knows

Leon was diagnosed with severe autism, and we had no idea how much he understood. He barely spoke, even when we asked him questions it was unclear whether he heard us as he wouldn't acknowledge us. We didn't understand our child's world. I often thought he must feel lonely. 
When Leon was 6 years old, we were making cards for Valentines day. Trying to put into words what love is was a difficult task. We asked him to try drawing "love", I wanted to see what came into his mind when he thinks of it, and we could go from there. He drew this picture.
I was shocked, and it warmed my heart.
Leon understands. I was so worried that he couldn't understand our gestures of affection. But seeing him draw this answered my questions. Every time I hugged him, he knew that I love him. When he hugged me back, I understood that he loved me too. 

Despite the simplicity, I can feel Leon's warmth radiating from it. I wanted to share this drawing with you. Give your loved ones a hug :)