Thinking Love

My in-law family did something pretty special this past Valentine's Day. After a delicious breakfast of heart-shaped pancakes and even heart-shaped strawberry slices, each person took turns saying something nice about everyone else. It took a couple hours since there were ten people sitting around the table and no one in this family is shy with words! Yet, except for the 6-year-old who was very antsy to dig into his valentine's candy, no one minded the time it took because everyone was soaking in the words of affirmation coming from each other's hearts. It was a bit of a challenge for me since I tend to fall into the less expressive side of things when it comes to emotions, but I was reminded of how important it is to not just assume that our loved ones know that we love them. They need to hear it and they need to know why. I am one of those constructive criticizers, usually noticing everything that needs improvement. I need to look out more for the things I can praise and encourage in others. I need to seek out ways in which to show that extra little bit of love. It makes a big difference, not only to them, but to my own outlook in life.