"We cannot rely on our native tongue if our spouse does not understand it. If we want them to feel the love we are trying to communicate, we must express it in his or her primary love language." -Gary Chapman For Relief Society Enrichment we had presentations on the 5 Love Languages, a concept developed by Gary Chapman, Ph.D.
Chapman believes that most of us use 1 of 5 ways to express emotional love. While each "love language" is used by many people he believes that most people speak 1 primary language of the 5 and as we understand which language someone else may speak, it helps us understand them better (our spouse, our children, our friends or extended family).
We had 5 top notch women explain the 5 languages (summarized below):
1. Words of Affirmation
Pam Calvert talked about how powerful words are and what a difference it can make when we use positive words. People really respond to compliments, especially sincere ones.
2. Quality Time
Tia talked about investing in a relationship by our attention, refusing to interrupt or give advise (just listening). One of the natural (and wonderful) by-products of quality activities is that they provide a memory bank from which to draw in the years ahead.
3. Receiving Gifts
Julie Moore talked about gifts. Gifts don't need to be expensive but meaningful. Thoughtful things given can be a symbolic representation of our love.
4. Acts of Service
Pat Tate talked about love being a verb; serving others by lifting burdens or rescuing them. Service might involve doing things for your spouse (or whomever) that you know they'd like, especially when it isn't our favorite thing to do.
5. Physical Touch.
Julie Holland talked about physical touch and how small and simple things can make or break a relationship. She shared ideas for the importance of physical touch with children, teenagers, friends and spouses.
It was another Jamie Walton inspired production which is code for a 5 Star Enrichment Evening. Jamie is so gifted in the fine art of displays and decor, she makes it look easy. But I'm not fooled, I know how much effort is usually involved just to make things look easy! It was a "lovely" evening, with lots of food for thought and real food/treats to enjoy!
