love languages

I've been reading a book called The 5 Love Languages, by Dr. Gary Chapman.  It's a simple, easy, and interesting read and I'm hoping Tommy will browse it's pages as well.  Actually - I can think of quite a few people I'd love to have read this book.  (Annnnd...I know a few couples who seem to have written this book!)

I am not yet 30, and have been married less than 12 months...but have friends around my age who have already experienced the heartbreak of divorce...it makes you wonder what went wrong?  Everyone gets married with the notion that their marriage will last forever...I certainly feel that way about my marriage.  Yet now, our newbie marriage will be tested in a way that I can't even comprehend.  We will be bringing a child into this world together - and I wonder how this new addition will alter our world. 

Dr. Chapman describes that being “in-love” can be exhilarating, but he encourages couples to pursue what he calls “real love.”   Learning how to meet each other’s deep need to be genuinely loved can put a very real and attainable love into reach—and won’t leave you asking “What happens to love after the marriage?”

The 5 love languages are:

·         Words of affirmation – such as saying “I love you” or “I appreciate you.”

·         Gifts – giving and receiving gifts whether it is flowers or power tools.

·         Physical touch – such as a back rub or a hug.

·         Acts of service – helping with the dishes or filling the car with gas.

·         Quality time – spending undistracted time together.

There is an online quiz focused on the book, where you can take the quiz to determine you own "love language" - it's all pretty interesting stuff.  I recommend this book - and might start giving it to friends of mine as they get engaged...every little piece of love helps.