Do you believe in love? I confess, I’m a dreamer. I believe that love is all around and that romance is still very much alive.

The recent engagement of our dear strata friends from Manly is proof that romance still exists. Mark, an extremely talented artist, proposed to his beautiful long-term partner, Kathryn, an illustrator/animator, via the sand dunes in Nelson Bay.

The answer? YES of course! Congratulations Mark and Kathryn, thank you for sharing your special announcement with us.

St Valentine’s Day

The international day for love, affection and romance. The day when Cupid, the god of affection according to Roman mythology, targets his magical gold-tipped arrows at hearts all over the world to help us fall deeply in love. Or so legend has it.

In today’s world, Valentine’s Day is a day to express how you feel towards the one (or those) you love.

Whether it’s your partner, colleague, neighbour, or your circle of friends, let’s take advantage of Cupid’s confidence and declare our true feelings. Ultimately, what is important is that we communicate and tell our special person or people we care.

And remember, love is a powerful and an emotionally strong word. Not one to be used light heartedly and one that has its own language.

What’s love language you ask? According to Dr Gary Chapman, author of The 5 Love Languages, it is words of affirmation, acts of service, quality time, physical touch and gifts.

It’s a simple philosophy that can be applied across many different places, such as the workplace and home.

Here’s some ideas to help you communicate your love language this Valentine’s Day:

Words of affirmation

Say something positive to someone you care for. Tell them they’ve done or are doing a great job. It could be as simple as commenting on the beauty of a neighbour’s garden. It could literally make their day.

Acts of service

This involves doing activities that require planning or effort. Plan a drive to a favourite destination, bake a cake or dinner for your neighbour or help a colleague to clear their workload.

Quality time

It’s as simple as providing someone with your undivided attention. No sneaky looks at your phone, no sending texts, just genuine undivided attention to let them know they are your priority right here and now.

Physical touch

Ever felt like you just needed a hug? Or given a high-five to a team member for nailing a presentation? Or introduced yourself to your new neighbour with a strong handshake? Remember how good it felt? Keep it up. And keep it appropriate.

Gifts

Giving gifts is just as rewarding as being on the receiving end. That feeling of gratefulness when your boss buys you a coffee, or giving your neighbour a tea towel because the print reminds you of their dog and you know they’ll love it. Make it sentimental for maximum appreciation.

So this Valentine’s Day go ahead, express your love for that special someone. Embrace your inner love language to deliver messages that you care to your special people. If we all shared in this kindness, even for a day, the world would be a much better place.

As said by the Corinthians; Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.

Main image supplied by illustrator/animator Kathryn Steggles and artist Mark Budd.