The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman is a book I heard mentioned frequently in the past few years so I purchased a copy for summer vacation. It was my attempt to diversify my reading from all the business and self development books I so thoroughly enjoy. Little did I know I had so much to learn, and self-develop, in this department!
The book is eye-opening and mind-opening. Much as we like to think we all speak a common language in our everyday conversations, our love languages can be just as different as well. The book describes the 5 love languages as follows:
1. Words of Affirmation – includes verbal compliments and words of appreciation
2. Quality Time – giving your undivided attention
3. Receiving Gifts – visual symbols of love
4. Acts of Service – doing things you know your spouse would like you to do
5. Physical Touch – not just the type you are thinking of (!), this includes holding hands, an arm around the waist, a foot rub and more
The descriptors are accurate representations of the language expressed yet there is so much awareness to be gained from delving into the contents of this easy-reading book. A profile for each spouse is included in the book to help each identify their love language. Tips and to-do’s are scattered through out to help you express your affection to your spouse in a manner that is highly meaningful to them, that is, in their language of love.
I had no idea how little I knew about the languages of love. I hope you find the insights in this book as helpful as I did.