Love Languages

I had a very interesting discussion with a friend last night. He had asked me about my self esteem and we began searching for the cause of my constant low. When we came to the topic of romance, I flinched. Love is something that I want. I desire it. But I'm young, and I'm still trying to figure myself out. I don't think I'm ready for love. Is anyone ready for love? I don't think anyone can be ready...That's why we fall into it. It's a surprise. And I suppose I crave that love, that acceptance, from someone so much, that I get my hopes up every time. I make excuses to lower my standards, so that I will feel better about my relationships. In the end, I break my own heart. A while back, I read a book called "The 5 Love Languages". Basically, it points out that everyone speaks a different love language, or how they communicate their love, whether it be by gifts, acts of service, or words of affirmation. I've yet to be with someone that speaks mine. Though I don't want to give up. I know that sounds silly. I'm not looking for a relationship. I'm just looking for a friend. Someone that can make me feel loved. Though, after examining myself, I realize that one of my  biggest problems is, I don't love myself. That's the first step, isn't it?