There is not just one day or season for love, although it’s hard not to focus on it this time of year and associate it with Valentine’s Day.
Many people think only of one type of love…the romantic kind between lovers. But the Greeks identified six types of love. In an age when we seem to be growing farther apart, we crave more kindness and acts of love. Now is an ideal time to think about how we can love others, not just romantically, but show love for all through kindness…a kind of love that connects us–just as art and the Hexagon Project connect us globally.
“The love, kindnesses, and value we have given authentically to others will be our remaining treasures at the end of life.”
Steve Brunkhorst
As we prepare to exchange cards, hugs, flowers and chocolate this Valentine’s Day, let’s put agape love into practice–kindness and charity that extends beyond lovers, family and friends. Consider what a gift you’ll be giving to children who see your acts of kindness. If you are a teacher or a parent or grandparent looking for fun and meaningful activities to do with young people, and/or if you are participating in this year’s Hexagon Project with the theme of Kindness, be sure to view this list of wonderful projects, called Pathways to Kindness.
This is a great way to introduce discussions about gratitude and how we can use that gratitude as the starting point to show kindness and love to those who contribute to the joy and happiness we feel in our lives…for which we are grateful. Be sure to also click the links in the interactive Happiness Calendar in Pathways to Kindness for even more inspiration.
Practice sharing the fullness of your being, your best self, your enthusiasm, your vitality, your spirit, your trust, your openness, above all, your presence. Share it with yourself, with your family, with the world.
Jon Kabat Zinn
