Right. Valentine’s. We’re going to look at it very briefly and then never speak of it again. Think of it as pre-emptive strike: it’s too dangerous to wait till Friday.
Love is not a matching set of bra and knickers or a plastic rose. Nor is it the exclusive preserve of hot young lovers. It’s emptying the bins as much as a violins. And there are 364 other days in which to show it.
So. Here’s some ways to tell the folks you love that you love them. And not a helium balloon in sight:
put a note in their lunch box
babysit for free
switch off your computer and listen
ask their opinion on something important and (sometimes) follow it
give them the last (and most perfect) bit of your sandwich
find out their favourite drink and make it for them the way they like
laugh at their jokes
check out that thing they were telling you about
buy them your favourite book and write a note in it
remember what you talked about last time you met and ask for an update
don’t steal their chips
tell them something they were right about
let them pick the film and (pretend) to like it
introduce them to people who matter to you and be proud
don’t rush them when they’re getting ready
tell their boss what a great job they do/leave a big tip
ask God to help you see them like He does
listen to their embarrassing stories (even the ones you’ve heard before)
notice when they change their appearance (and be gentle)
be honest, even if it makes you uncomfortable
encourage them to try something they want to do but are scared of
put the toilet seat lid down (or leave it up).