Love in the digital age looks a little different from the grand gestures of the past. Gone are the days when affection was measured solely by handwritten letters, mixtapes, or long phone calls into the early hours. Today, love can be as simple as sending a perfectly timed meme, an inside joke in GIF form, or, perhaps most notably, a well-curated Instagram reel.

If you’ve ever received a random video in your DMs from a friend, partner, or even a family member, take a moment to appreciate the significance — it’s their way of saying, “I saw this and thought of you.”

For many, sending reels has become a digital love language, a way to maintain closeness even when life gets busy. In an era when attention spans are short, schedules are packed, and in-person interactions can be limited, these bite-sized clips serve as a bridge between people. Whether it’s a hilarious skit, a motivational speech, or a clip of an animal doing something absurd, reels can convey emotions, thoughts, and connections in ways that words sometimes fail to capture.

Language has always evolved alongside technology. Just as love letters gave way to phone calls and text messages, social media has introduced new ways for people to express their affection. Emojis, reaction GIFs, and voice notes have all played their part, but reels and memes have taken things a step further. They add an element of personalisation, a touch of thoughtfulness that makes digital communication feel intimate rather than distant.

Think about it: scrolling through Instagram or TikTok is usually a solitary activity, but when you send someone a reel, you’re inviting them into your world for a moment. It’s as if you’re saying, “This made me laugh, and I want to share that laughter with you.” In a way, it’s a modern version of passing notes in class or pointing out something funny in a newspaper article — except now the content is endless and the delivery is instant.

One of the most beautiful aspects of sending reels is that it’s never random. There’s always some level of intention behind it. Unlike a generic “good morning” message or a mass-forwarded inspirational quote, a reel is chosen specifically for the recipient. It might match their sense of humour, reference an inside joke, or even be something that reminds the sender of a shared experience.

For romantic partners, it could be a funny video about relationships or a sweet clip that captures their dynamic. For best friends, it’s usually something ridiculous that no one else would understand. Even among family members, reels can become a form of connection — siblings sending each other nostalgic throwbacks, parents sharing wholesome content, or even grandparents engaging with younger generations through funny or heart-warming videos.

In many ways, sending reels is a demonstration of how well someone knows you. If a friend consistently sends you videos that make you laugh out loud, they’ve clearly paid attention to your sense of humour. If a partner sends you comforting or inspiring content when you’re feeling down, it shows they’re tuned into your emotions.

One of the greatest challenges of modern relationships — whether romantic, platonic, or familial — is maintaining connection despite busy schedules. Life gets hectic and sometimes there just isn’t enough time for long conversations or frequent meet-ups. This is where reels shine as a tool for maintaining bonds without requiring too much effort or time.

Unlike texting, which can sometimes feel like a social obligation, sending a reel is a simple, pressure-free way of saying, “I’m thinking of you.” It doesn’t demand an immediate response, nor does it require deep emotional labour. The recipient can watch it at their own convenience, react however they like, and maybe even send one back in return. This effortless exchange keeps relationships alive, even in the busiest of times.

Furthermore, reels offer an easy way to check in on someone without the formality of asking, “How are you?” Sometimes, when a friend is going through a tough time, they might not feel like talking — but a funny or uplifting video could bring a smile to their face without requiring them to engage in a conversation they’re not ready for.

Of course, sending reels doesn’t replace meaningful conversations or quality time spent together. But there are moments when a 15-second clip can say more than an entire paragraph. When words feel inadequate — whether it’s to express affection, offer support, or simply share a laugh — a well-chosen reel can do the job perfectly.

There’s a reason why people often say, “This video is so you” when sharing content. It’s a way of recognising and affirming someone’s personality, interests, or experiences. A video about the struggles of being a night owl, for instance, might perfectly encapsulate a friend’s reality. A reel about the joys and challenges of being a teacher might resonate deeply with an educator. These little moments of recognition foster a sense of understanding and closeness.

In some cases, sending reels can even become a form of flirting. Many modern love stories have started with a simple “LOL” reaction to a funny video. When words feel too forward, a shared joke can break the ice and create an effortless connection.

In a world overflowing with content, the ones we choose to share hold significance. A reel might seem like just another video in an endless stream of digital noise, but in reality, it can be a small yet meaningful act of care. It’s a way of saying, “I see you, I know you, and I want to share a piece of joy with you today.”

So the next time someone floods your DMs with videos, don’t take it for granted. It’s their way of keeping you close, of making sure you’re part of their day even if you’re miles apart. And if you’re not already sending reels to the people you care about, maybe it’s time to start — after all, love in the digital age is just one ‘send’ button away.

Leroy Fearon is an educator, author and researcher. Send comments to Jamaica Observer or leroyfearon85@gmail.com.