Let me ask you something. Among all the love languages, which one is your favorite?
I bet you already have an answer. Some might say words of affirmation, because they love being complimented, encouraged, and received sincere words that move them. Some may even say acts of service because they love helping people as a demonstration of their love and care for them. Others may even choose quality time because they love spending hours together and it makes them feel more connected. By choosing to give or receive gifts, they choose to show their love through meaningful gifts even though it might not be that expensive but, of course, it is the thought that counts. One may also show their love through physical touch which makes them feel secure and protected.
These things are more than the intimacy we see through couples or in relationships. As we look closely at the people around us, it is also manifested in them every day. Whether you are riding a jeep, walking through a public market, heading to school, or just walking in the streets on a typical day on a typical sidewalk.
There are instances when you find yourself in a public market and vendors would often try to get your attention with phrases like, “Ganda, bili na!” or “‘Te, bagay ‘to sa kutis mo, maganda!”. There are also situations where you would ask for directions and they often bid goodbye by saying “ingat.” Saying “thank you” or “salamat po” along with a smile plastered on their faces every time are also a way of appreciating what one has done to you. These small acts of kindness are truly precious things.
Traveling in a jeepney, you usually pay for your fare by saying “bayad po” as you hand over your money, and then people in front of you will extend their help to hand it over to the driver.
You might also often observe people assisting the elderly, or those with disabilities as they navigate their way into the streets or get on their transportation. For some pedestrians, there are times when you are having a hard time crossing because of the steady stream of traffic but there are helpful people who control the traffic for you to cross.
You might also encounter groups of people waiting for a vehicle on the roadside. Few might strike up a conversation, ask for directions, or even have a little chit-chat to pass time while waiting for your jeep to arrive.
Some may also offer you something to chew on while traveling, maybe candy or gum perhaps. You might also find friends unexpectedly bump into each other in the same jeep, with one offering to pay for the other’s fare.
You may come across stranded passengers waiting at a bus terminal, where you can bond over shared frustrations about the long wait and share the same dilemma with other passengers. There are also people riding the same vehicle at the same time, going in the same directions, spending time together traveling as they go through traffic, and eventually arriving at their location.
When walking or maybe strolling through the streets, you might also see people who are generous enough to give alms to the poor and homeless without expecting anything in return.
You might notice friends clinging to each other to ensure they won't lose sight of one another. It can also be seen in mothers with their children or families traveling together as they always instinctively keep close to ensure they won't be separated, especially in crowded places.
These things happen. While these may seem like just everyday occurrences we stumble upon during travels, going to market, or strolling around the streets, these are far beyond the obvious. These are subtle expressions of love in a way that people unknowingly express. These “ordinary” moments manifest the five love languages: words of affirmation, acts of service, giving/receiving gifts, quality time, and physical touch.
May these simple things enlighten us that love can be expressed in many ways possible, regardless if you are in a relationship or not. May this make us realize that love is in us, in everyone around us, and can be found anywhere anytime because love is us.
Article: Angela Sorsano
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