What does love, look like to you? Is it what a person says? How about their actions, the things they do? Is it the gifts they bring whether purchased or handmade? What is about them that says, “I LOVE YOU”?
For me, it’s about the little things people do, the simple act of noticing, taking time to think about me, be intentional, mindful, what is it that will brighten my spirits and my day. I appreciate words of affirmation, being reminded of how loved and appreciated I am through handwritten notes and letters as well as face to face conversations. Being surprised with little gifts lets me know they’ve been intentional and purposeful in the ways in which they chose to brighten my day.
What made my heart happy is seeing a special Valentine’s gift waiting for me on our dining room table. I wasn’t expecting to see this, yet in the back of my mind I was secretly hoping, wondering if my husband would go out of his way to bring something home to surprise me. I was grateful he went out of his way, taking the time to think of me, pick out what he thought I would enjoy the most. Pink roses and dark chocolates, now that was a special treat! Pink is my favorite color, and I love dark chocolates too!
My husband has mentioned in the past I don’t need to buy him gifts-I didn’t for Valentine’s Day. I didn’t feel bad about it, nor did he. So glad I didn’t let guilt wash over me. I think my gift back to him was acknowledging him, being grateful for he went out of his way to do something special for me. It’s been a tough week at school, with my emotions and all. What a gift it was to be noticed, thought of and reminded of how much I am loved!
As him and I were driving into town this morning, we engaged in meaningful conversations. Seems like those kinds of conversations don’t happen often enough. Being able to talk openly, freely, now that was a gift too. Speaking for myself, I know I need to work on more effectively communicating with him, speaking in a way that is more inviting rather than guarded, fighting to be heard (for my inner child yearning, demanding to be heard).
When we allow one another the opportunity, space, and grace to be heard without interruption, what an improvement in the quality of conversation not to mention how much it strengthens the relationship. That’s what I want more of, meaningful conversations, a healthy marriage and relationship too.
It’s like a weight has been lifted from me. My heart a more peaceful place where joy rushes in and learns to trust once again. Perhaps this is God’s way of trying to tell me, to show me how my brokenness is being repaired, to trust in Him, keep doing the hard work, have a softened heart and know life is about to change for the better. I am coming into my new self, and prayers, things hoped for, are being answered.
Magnificent Meraki 