Next we have the love language Dr Chapman calls Receiving Gifts. This one is a bit more difficult for me to talk about since it is at the bottom in my own ranking, yet I get it. It is nice to be thought of and that is the whole point. Gifts need not be expensive because what we are truly doing is investing in the relationship, so it really is the thought that counts… so long as it is thoughtful, that is. When we give each other gifts to each other demonstrating our affection for that person, we must keep in mind that it should be something THEY want, not necessarily something WE want to give them. The focus must be the person you are loving. This requires getting to know that person you want to give the gift to, right? Again, think bond here. We should desire to connect with the person we are trying to love by giving them gifts they will appreciate.
We are talking about a visual symbols of love, like the purpose of wedding rings, Dr Chapman says. Something they can hold and know that you were thinking of them and knew that the gift would please them. This is a big part of loving others the way God loves us: we are seeking to please THEM. I do love how Dr Chapman questions: “Is the attitude of love always accompanied by the concept of giving?” (p75) I would say a big YES! While in this love language we are talking about a physical, tangible gift, whenever we choose to love, we are indeed giving someone the most important part of us, our heart.
2023’s Got A Minute? Book Club
January: The Bible
February: “The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts” by Gary Chapman
<>< Peace, Diane
