My family is very affectionate with each other. We hug each other hello and goodbye every time we see each other and frequently tell each other we love them. My boyfriends family is the exact opposite of mine. You know they have that understanding that they love each other but they don’t go saying it every day (at least when I am there). They could be more secretive about it in a way. They don’t show it in front of others. So my boyfriend isn’t one for public affection – and I mean like small kisses not anything worth saying “get a room” and covering up a small child’s eyes. And as you’re learning to be more affectionate, I am learning that you don’t have to show affection to show your feelings about some one. Whether it be family or a significant other or a friend.

@Gr8Grace - 

Sometimes I thought my boyfriend mistook my affection for clingyness. I explained to him that’s how I am and he understands. Occasionally he still has to remind me ‘You know I am not one to show much affection in public’. But I try to remember it.