Like a lot of people, I had read The Five Love Languages by Gary D. Chapman a few years ago and it resonated with me.
For those that don’t know them, they are:
- gifts
- quality time
- words of affirmation
- acts of service/devotion
- and physical touch.
Our commitment statement states
We are aware that our language of love is different. At times, we will attempt to speak the other’s language, at other times we just acknowledge each other’s love in our own language.
You can take a guess what our love languages are if you read below.
Acts of service can be as simple as making dinner for Sandra when she comes home late from work or remembering to do a task that she had asked for. Sandra chooses her words wisely and when she says I love you, I know that it is true and heartfelt. However, as social creatures, we also instinctively mirror the behaviours we see. Over time, I have learned to express my feelings more and Sandra does ‘things’ for me to show her love.
So, how can all this help you? I recommend that you read Gary’s book. Talk to your partner about it. You can even consider these love languages as a basis for understanding your parents, your children, your friends. We are all different, we all have different experiences. Really understanding and appreciating differences will help in any relationship. I know it has certainly helped ours.
Feature photo by Tim Marshall on Unsplash
