I must admit that I didn’t fully realize the power of appreciation until last February.
This year, I decided to do something different for Valentine’s Day. Instead of the usual box of chocolates or small gifts for my daughters (ages 11 and 13) and husband, I sent each of them a daily text for the two weeks leading up to Valentine’s Day. These texts simply shared something I love or appreciate about them.
On February 1, I started.
I shared qualities I love, such as appreciation and little things that I may have never mentioned before. I found quiet moments while waiting in line, parked for school pick-up, or before bed to send these messages. Nothing fancy, just a heartfelt sentence or two.
What Happened?
I immediately noticed that my mood brightened, and my heart filled with gratitude each time I paused and spent a few moments sending love.
Not only that, these texts had another surprising effect. My daughters and husband LOVED receiving them. Their moods brightened and we felt more connection too.
When we express our gratitude and appreciation for others, the positive effect is powerful and immediate.
The Power of Appreciation
My Valentine’s texts were clear reminders of the power of appreciation. When I take time to spread love, it expands my heart and touches the hearts of others. Simply put, what I focus on, expands. And I can think of nothing better to focus on than sharing more love.
“Your task is not to seek for love, but merely to seek and find all the barriers within yourself that you have built against it.”
— Rumi
Related Posts:
Five Ways to Stay Connected to Your Teen
Simple Ways to Cultivate a Respectful Home
5 Ways to Feel More Connected to Your Family Today
About Jessica Speer:
Jessica Speer is the award-winning author of books for kids and teens, including The Phone Book – Stay Safe, Be Smart, and Make the World Better with the Powerful Device in Your Hand, BFF or NRF (Not Really Friends)? A Girls Guide to Happy Friendships and Middle School – Safety Goggles Advised.
Blending social science, stories, and activities, her writing guides readers through tricky stuff that surfaces during childhood and adolescence. She holds a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences and has a knack for writing about complex topics in a way that connects with kids and teens. Jessica regularly contributes to media outlets on content related to kids, parenting, friendship, screens, and social-emotional learning. For more information, visit .JessicaSpeer.com
Great post.