Another mission checked off our family’s list this year—we finally renewed our passports! It had been over a decade since we last had them updated, and this time, it was extra special because our youngest applied for his very first passport. Back when we were just a family of three, our first (and last) trip abroad was to Hong Kong. Our eldest was just a year old then. Since that trip, life got busy, and renewing our passports kept getting pushed back—year after year. Booking a passport appointment these days isn’t exactly a walk in the park. Everything has to be done online, and every time I checked the DFA website, the slots in the satellite office near us were always fully booked. Eventually, I gave up trying—until a colleague mentioned DFA San Pablo City in Laguna. It's about an hour and a half (or two, depending on traffic) from our place. Out of curiosity, I checked their schedule and, to my surprise, found several open slots. I didn’t waste a second—I booked o...
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Love is often spoken about in grand terms, but it's true essence lies in how it is expressed and received. Since it is love month, it is the perfect time to talk about love and how to express it meaningfully. Many family relationships suffer not from a lack of love, but from a lack of understanding how love is communicated. Dr. Gary Chapman, a renowned author, speaker, and counselor, introduced the concept of the Five Love Languages in his book The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts. His work provides valuable insight into how people give and receive love differently. When applied within the family, these languages can bridge emotional gaps, strengthen relationships, and foster a deeper connection among family members.
Understanding these love languages can help parents, spouses, and children appreciate each other’s way of showing affection. Rather than feeling unappreciated or misunderstood, families can learn to recognize and reciprocate love in a way that resonates with their loved ones.
1. Words of Affirmation
Verbal expressions of love, appreciation, and encouragement hold great power. Simple phrases like "I love you," "Thank you," or "I appreciate you" can make a significant impact on a loved one’s emotional well-being. Some people, especially in cultures where verbal affection is not commonly practiced, may struggle with this. However, children learn from their parents, so making a habit of using kind and affirming words can encourage them to do the same as they grow older.
2. Acts of Service
For some, love is best expressed through actions rather than words. This could be as simple as preparing a meal, taking care of responsibilities without being asked, or offering help when needed. Acts of service show thoughtfulness and dedication, reinforcing love through selfless efforts.
3. Physical Touch
A warm hug, a reassuring pat on the back, or holding hands can convey deep emotions that words sometimes fail to express. While physical touch is often misinterpreted or associated with romantic relationships, it plays a crucial role in familial bonds as well. Simple gestures of affection can provide comfort, security, and reassurance, especially to children.
4. Receiving Gifts
Giving and receiving gifts is another way people express love. While some may view this as materialistic, the true essence of this love language is thoughtfulness. A small, meaningful gift can symbolize appreciation and effort. However, it’s important to understand that not everyone expresses love through gifts, and financial constraints should not be equated with a lack of affection.
5. Quality Time
Spending meaningful time together strengthens relationships. Quality time does not require extravagant trips or expensive outings—it can be as simple as having a heartfelt conversation, eating meals together, or engaging in shared activities. Being fully present, without distractions, shows that one values and prioritizes their family.
Instead of focusing on what is lacking in a relationship, families should learn to recognize and appreciate the ways their loved ones express love. Parents play a crucial role in shaping their children’s understanding of affection by modeling openness, communication, and appreciation.
A strong family bond is built on mutual efforts, and consciously practicing these love languages can foster a more loving and harmonious home.
By applying Dr. Gary Chapman’s Five Love Languages within the family, we can create a more understanding, appreciative, and emotionally connected home environment.
#LoveLanguages #FamilyBonding #StrengtheningRelationships #QualityTime #ActsOfService #WordsOfAffirmation #Parenting #FamilyLove
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