SHOW MORE LOVE
Marianna Martinelli with her daughter • @marmarmartinell
We caught up with four brilliant people in our community to hear how they show and receive love. Our hope is for you to glean a bit of wisdom and feel inspired to fill your life with more acts of love this month (and every month after). 💚
Vanessa Santos and her pups • @vanessasantosfein
How do you show love to the people in your life?
Vanessa Santos • @vanessasantosfein
I show love by being there for all seasons of their lives, by cheering them in all of their soul pursuits, and holding space for them to be as they are.Denise Bidot • @denisebidot
One of the most important ways I show love to the people in my life is by checking on them and being there for them, to chat, vent, and feel seen. We can sometimes forget how simply making time for people and asking how their day is can make them feel loved and valued. No day is too busy to show people you love them. Another recent way I’ve been expressing my love is through food. Having developed a passion for cooking during COVID, I am now that friend baking and cooking for you when you come over.
Bruna Nessif • @mysticbru
I think presence is a main way I show love to the people in my life. I'm definitely someone who holds space for a lot of people given the work that I do, and the same is true for those closest to me. I pride myself on being someone my friends know they can rely on and turn to when they're navigating emotionally charged experiences, or just need someone to be there. So whether it's a cry session or just hanging out and eating while watching something together, there's a sense of constant companionship and presence that is never questioned.Marianna Martinelli • @marmarmartinelli
If you're loved by me, you'll be the recipient of random phone calls, voice notes, Facetimes, and text messages. Checking in or sending a silly meme is how I like to let you know I'm thinking about you. But, my favorite way to show love is in-person quality time. It could be dinner, drinks, or even us running errands together. The pandemic really reinforced my strongly held belief that screens can get the job of connecting done, but there's no substitute for in-person time. My husband and kiddos are the recipients of the most in-person love whether they like it or not!
Denise Bidot with her grandma • @denisebidot
What things can people do for you to make you feel loved and cared for?
Vanessa Santos • @vanessasantosfein
As a person who is called to be in service to others, I feel loved and cared for when I get texts that I am being thought of. When someone remembers something I said and shows up for me by holding space for me to be human. I feel loved when I'm cuddling with my boys. Food and experiences are a love language for me and I feel loved when they take the initiative to book a dinner or a spontaneous adventure. I feel cared for when I am asked "how is your soul today?"
Denise Bidot • @denisebidot
I’m super simple actually. Good morning texts go a long way. Knowing someone is thinking of me and wishing me a good day feels like a great way to make me feel your love. I also adore flowers and cards but something as small as a Post-It with a sweet message could make me feel loved all day.
Bruna Nessif • @mysticbru
Consideration is a huge thing that makes me feel loved, and that can show up in many different ways. Remembering something I like, considering my time and energy before assuming accessibility, holding space for me to navigate tough emotions without judgment or criticism are just a few ways those closest to me have shown their love and care for me and it's really allowed me to lean deeper into the relationships I have in my life because of the sincerity of their consideration for my well-being. As an only child and immigrant who grew up without her family nearby, I've often felt like I had to do life alone, and my friendships have shown me that's not the case, and I love them for that.
Marianna Martinelli • @marmarmartinelli
I believe that folks often love you the way they hope to be loved back. So, I love a random phone call and check-in text. Recently, I had major hip surgery which had me pretty immobile. Between home visits, care packages, and thoughtful meals; my loved ones showed up for me big time. Once I'm healed up, I'm looking forward to more museum and nature-based adventures with family and friends (especially when someone else organizes all the details!)
Bruna Nessif (center) with friends • @mysticbru