Give More Valentines

Remember in grade school how you had to send a Valentine to everyone in your class?

Think about that this Valentine’s day. Who can you acknowledge? Reach out in gratitude and affection, not only for your immediate family and loved-ones, but think about the people who make life better. Consider your mail carrier. The woman at the end of the block who smiles and waves as you drive by every morning. There are people whom we experience every day who are very much a part of our lives.

The Small Things Matter

We don’t have many words for love in English, but some languages have hundreds. In our daily lives we experience sources of love and kindness that often go unacknowledged.

You don’t have to give the UPS driver, the dry cleaner, or your kids’ teachers actual Valentines. (Although I imagine they would appreciate them). But look them right in the eye and say, “thank you.” Or better yet, send a handwritten note drawing attention to something for which you’re grateful. Something you love about them. Or mention a way they’ve touched your life.

We get busy, we get involved in our own close circles and we tend to forget the many people who make our lives more livable and lovely.

Consider, too, those who might feel lonesome and unseen. Do you know someone who is struggling who might benefit from a small gesture from you that will make him or her feel a little less alone?

Kindness Multiplies

We are responsible for the way we interact with everyone in our lives, from those we work with to those with whom we “compete” for parking spaces at the mall. Invest in love and kindness and it will multiply in your life. Focus your attention on what you can give to make the world a better place for those whose paths cross your own. Be a blessing and reach out just a little further. You won’t regret.

Comment with a list of all the valentine-worthy people in your daily life!