Love can be expressed a thousand different ways. Holding the door open for someone, helping with homework, making dinner, or even something as simple as looking a stranger in the eye while you smile and say hello. Love motivates us to feed the poor, wipe our feet before going into Grandmas’ house, or let someone else go ahead of us at the check out line.
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, you can't help but begin thinking of the big L word...LOVE. Many people think of romance when they hear the word love. Two people, madly in love, meant for each other...like Romeo and Juliet. But love is so much more than that.
"Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get, only with what you are hoping to give – which is everything.” – Katharine Hepburn
As we get older, it can sometimes feel challenging to invest time into things outside your family, livelihood, and personal responsibilities. Over the last few generations, leading with kindness in our daily lives has become more and more rare. It was once commonplace for neighbors to check in on each other and work together to beautify their communities. To have a friendly chat when you saw one another getting the mail or coming home from work. To go out of your way to do things like carrying groceries, shoveling snow, or even cooking a meal for the neighborhood elderly or those who are under the weather.
You would be surprised how easy it is to keep the magic of love alive.
New Year's resolutions are wonderful ways to find the motivation you need to love others, but more often than not, we forget to look outward for our self-improvement.
The rings of those expressions of love can ripple out to touch the lives of others.
This 573Magazine.com Story is brought to you by WorkSPACE co-working space in Farmington, Missouri!
One thing I love about living in the 573 is that there are so many people, businesses, and communities in the area who love to love. In fact, it grows within them, flowing over into their everyday lives. You would be surprised how easy it is to keep the magic of love alive. It doesn't cost anything, only your time. It’s well worth it. The rings of those expressions of love can ripple out and touch the lives of others.
As Valentine's Day approaches, keep in mind the true spirit of love. It's not chocolates and roses. It's not jewelry or cards. (Disclaimer fact check: They can help!) It's giving tiny morsels of yourself to those around you. Giving your time. Sharing meals. Helping others. Radiating warmth to your home and community with kindness and a charitable spirit.
Happy Valentine's Day 573. Now, GET OUT THERE and show some love!
Kara King
-573 magazine editor of love
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