By Lyka Peng, G10 on Love Languages!
You’re probably thinking, “This is clickbait. I’m barely multilingual. I don’t even know how to speak English properly.” Now is when I grace you with the presence of this article, and tell you, dear reader, that you are absolutely wrong.
This language is more prevalent than you think– one you may know, but could never quite put your finger on it. Rather than stringing words to form coherent (or not) sentences, this language allows you to feel deeply, especially for another person. You know it all too well, the feeling of butterflies in your stomach. Like you’re soaring high above the clouds and the entire world is lit up like a carnival… okay. This is getting a little bit ridiculous. But you get it, you feel like your insides are going to combust into a million pieces, all because of the existence of this particular person.
What did they do to make you feel that way? Is it because they have a way with words, or is it because they’re good at choosing presents for your birthday? Whatever it is, it’s probably one of the five Love Languages (no, it’s not French) developed by Dr. Gary Chapman, a marriage counselor. He noticed a pattern with all of the couples he was helping, seeing that they all preferred different ways of expressing and receiving love. The solution to each relationship could easily be boiled down to five categories or five ‘love languages’. This is a revolutionary approach on how to love others, and how others could love you. Millions of relationships and emotional connections have flourished worldwide because of this, strengthening bonds that could transcend time. Out of the five, everyone has one Love Language that speaks more to them than any of the others. Here they are:
1. Words of Affirmation: If this is your Love Language, you find happiness in the things people say to you. You literally melt at them. You like receiving your love in words and compliments because it makes you feel appreciated. However, don’t mistake this with fishing for attention or flattery. You really value the genuinity behind each and every word said to you.
2. Acts of Service: If this is your Love Language, then you definitely think that actions speak louder than words. You like it when someone does something just for you, even if it’s just a simple act like cooking or washing the dishes or opening the doors. Nothing speaks ‘love’ louder than someone taking the time and effort, going out of their way to make you happy.
3. Gifts: If this is your Love Language, it does not mean you are shallow or materialistic, demanding a new, expensive present every single month. That is a common misconception with this Love Language. You just want a gift that is meaningful and sincere– a gift that shows how much they think about you and appreciate you in their lives.
4. Quality Time: If this is your Love Language, then you appreciate it when someone dedicates and spends their time with you, giving you their full, undivided attention. Just to be able to talk and listen to each other is all that you need. Nothing comforts you more than simply being in each other’s presence– no distractions, nothing required.
5. Physical touch: If this is your Love Language, then you find that physical affection speaks to you the most. Not only do you want them to be close emotionally, but physically as well. You find tranquility in holding hands, hugs, kisses, etc. It makes you feel safe and appreciated, knowing that they like to keep you next to them, always.
Now, say it with me in 1… 2… 3… awww. That was sweet. Curious to find out what your Love Language is? Take the quiz below!
Works Cited
Love, Crated with. “The 5 Love Languages® And What They Mean.” Crated With Love, 13 Mar. 2020, cratedwithlove.com/blog/five-love-languages-and-what-they-mean/.Moody. “The Five Love Languages Defined.” The 5 Love Languages®, 16 May 2018, www.5lovelanguages.com/2018/06/the-five-love-languages-defined/.