The Family We Choose: Nurturing Those Who Love to Love You

Throughout life we will encounter many souls—some that feel like kindred spirits and some we would rather steer clear of. We may also find that the people who become most important in our lives may not even be related to us.

These people transcend the term “friend” and are inaugurated into our inner circle and treated liked beloved family members. This is our friend family, our tribe, our chosen people.

Friends who make us feel seen, understood, appreciated and loved are one of a kind. Nurturing these friendships and making the effort to let them know how we feel and how much they influence our lives can not only open their hearts, but ours as well.

To give whole heartedly is to receive. And giving to people who love, appreciate and respect you and your relationship is even better! Make your tribe feel loved and cherished throughout the year with these tips!

1. Listen, Observe and Act
   Being there for the people closest to you shows that you are dedicated to the relationship and invested in their health and happiness. When we make an effort to listen, observe and act in their best interest, we are strengthening the bond and ensuring that they know we are there–through thick and thin. If you sense that there may be something bothering a friend but they aren’t being open about it, show them that you care by asking and holding space. Not everyone wants advice. Sometimes they just need someone to listen or have a shoulder to rest a tired head on.
2. Be a Gracious Receiver
   A huge part of giving to others is accepting their love, gifts, attention, time and energy. It is ok to take. It is ok to receive with open arms and not feel like you have to give something in return. Some of the greatest joy comes from giving; and to express guilt through receiving robs the giver of some of that joy. So accept graciously and with an open heart.
3. Express Love Across Miles
   It is not uncommon for kindred spirits to live on the other side of the city or on the other side of the world. Love transcends space and time but it is still important to let your long distance soul sisters or brothers that you are with them in spirit. Send notes, things you know they’ll love, birthday cards or even flowers. Receiving a thoughtful gift or hello from someone who knows you to your depths is a heart expanding gesture.

Beyond the holiday season, our friend family loves to be loved. When you begin to give without the expectation of receiving something in return, you truly experience the intoxicating joy of giving.

Make it a must to show those unrelated relatives just how much you care all year. Not just at birthdays or holidays or major events. Because it’s the random acts of kindness that express the most love–when they aren’t warranted by a special event but just your loving and giving heart.

Watch your heart and world expand when you love to love.

How do you express your love and appreciation for those closest to you? Share your random acts of kindness with us in the comments below!