Whether you’re married, dating or single, love is a prevalent and vital part of your life. First thing is to love God; He loves you. This much will always be true. We are never without love. Whether life is going well or maybe you’re struggling along your path, His love prevails. Next, you must love yourself. We often forget to love ourselves, or we mistaken that with conceit. When really, loving yourself is something we are called to do. It’s another form of self-respect. Finally, we must love others. This includes family, friends, a significant other, or maybe simply a person you have just met.
“The most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love, and to let it come in. Let it come in. We think we don’t deserve love, we think if we let it in we’ll become too soft. But a wise man named Levin said it right. He said, “Love is the only rational act.” (Tuesdays with Morrie)
The question, now, is “how?” How can you express your love to others, and discover how you best receive love? Last year, I was introduced to The Love Languages, which are the different ways to express love to someone. Discovering your own love language can also help make it clearer how to communicate, grow in your friendships and express love in the most meaningful way.
1. Words of Affirmation: There is someone you care about and love? Tell them. Hearing the words, “I love you”, being encouraged, or having gratitude expressed can really make us feel loved. Words are very powerful; use them wisely.
2. Acts of Service: Completing even a small or practical task for another individual may have a lot of impact on their day. Whether you run an errand for someone when they are overworked, or help wash dishes after a meal together; actions like these can express love.
3. Receiving Gifts: I find gift giving to be very symbolic, unique and meaningful for each relationship between those giving and receiving. When someone gives you a gift that made him or her think of you in some way it is one of the most special feelings. In return, giving a gift can be exhilarating to watch the person you love overcome with happiness and witness your love.
4. Quality Time: This one is my personal favorite. Giving someone your undivided attention for even a small amount of time is incredibly meaningful. Especially in the world we live in: surrounded by technology, and fast paced distractions. When someone gives of their time it shows that they prioritize you and love you.
5. Physical Touch: Affection is felt through physical touch. Even a hug from a friend expresses care, comfort, and love.
Gary Chapman’s 5 Love Languages help us to understand how we can express love to others and how we best receive love. “There is no such thing as 'too late' in life” (Tuesdays with Morrie). Express your love today, and everyday.
