In the month of February, many hearts turn to Valentine’s Day, a celebration synonymous with love, roses, and sweet gestures. In my home, while the calendar acknowledges the day of love, the spirit of affection transcends a single date — it permeates our daily lives. For my family, the true essence of love lies not in receiving flowers and chocolates just on Valentine’s Day but in the subtle, unexpected acts of kindness that shape our lives every day.

For me, I’d much rather have my husband bring home flowers “just because,” or pick up my favorite coffee from Starbucks after getting his haircut, or the thoughtful act of taking my car for a wash without having to ask. These gestures, unscheduled and driven by genuine care, speak louder than any grand Valentine’s Day display.

Just three days after the dedicated celebration of love, we celebrate another meaningful observance — Random Acts of Kindness Day. Unlike Valentine’s Day, this day isn’t confined to a specific date; I like to think of it as more of a lifestyle, a commitment to continuously infuse kindness into our actions. This day encourages us to embrace a mindset of giving rather than receiving, transcending a single day of niceties to become a way of life.

In the chaotic Costco parking lot, it might mean allowing someone else to take a parking spot. In heavy traffic, it’s the simple act of letting a fellow driver merge ahead of us. The essence of kindness lies in these seemingly inconspicuous moments.

The philosophy behind random acts of kindness is about creating a positive ripple effect. By choosing to act selflessly, we contribute to a world where compassion and empathy are in surplus. I’m a firm believer that the more we give, the more comes back to us. Imagine a world where everyone adopted this mindset — where giving was the norm rather than the exception. The transformation would be profound.

This Valentine’s Day, let’s broaden the scope of celebration. It’s not solely about romantic love; it’s an opportunity to celebrate all forms of love, including friendships. Perhaps someone around us is grappling with the first holiday season without a loved one. We can extend warmth and joy by inviting them for lunch or dinner, showcasing that love isn’t confined to romantic relationships.

Spread kindness, whether it’s offering an extra blanket to someone in need or helping a struggling mom at the grocery store. Random acts of kindness provide countless opportunities to make the world a better place, one small step at a time.