Page 46 - LIN February-2023_web-version

Valentine's Day is February 14 , ,
Valentine's Day is February 14 th
th
but every day offers opportunities
but every day offers opportunities
to express and experience the joy of a loving mindset.
to express and experience the joy of a loving mindset.

Believe in the power of love love

is the

by Karen Coney Coplin
answer.

t 28 days, except for leap years, February
is our shortest month. It boasts a special
A day devoted to affection and love. 18—Remember a lost loved one and do something that reminds
This can be felt both within and around you, you of happy times when they were alive, or otherwise honors their
with others sharing your life in Naples. legacy.
An unexpected bonus is that this positive 17—Are you one for surprises? There is no shortage of ways to
experience can be spread worldwide, through inject a happy note into someone's day. It could be as simple as paying
social media and other ripple effects. for someone behind you in the drive-through lane.
Mother Teresa summed up a truth which 16—Call someone who would appreciate hearing from you.
many of us know. We are better together. 15—Pick a funny joke to make another smile and laugh.
"...we can all do small things with great love and together we 14—Treat yourself! This can take many forms and self-love is
can do something wonderful." always the foundation for expressions of love to others.
What small things make your heart sing this month? Let any 13—A corollary: forgive yourself - and others.
of these start a chorus. 12—Put an end to a quarrel which may now seem senseless. And
Here are some suggestions for each day of month: even if not...maybe it's time to start anew, if only to free yourself.
28—Share your passions. Do you have a hobby? Let your skills 11—Let your eyes light up when someone you care about walks
and ideas inspire others online or local Meetup groups. into the room. If that hasn't happened lately, let it happen today!
27—Share your enthusiasm. Give a shout-out to someone 10—Adopt a favorite piece of advice to utilize when possible:
bearing happy news. It's all around us. If you are open to it, good "Give a soft answer."
news will come in droves. Maybe a local high schooler is going to 9—Affirm another's worth. Find the words, speak them and share
attend your alma mater, having just found out via early decision. these with that person - as well as others.
Congratulations are always welcome! 8—Hold someone's hand and give it a special squeeze. Or pay
26—Send a handwritten note to a friend of old. "Real" snail gentle attention to a loving pet.
mail is so rare these days. A bonus would be picking out a fun or 7—Find a way to support your favorite charity, even if a financial
pretty stamp to make your envelope shine a little "extra." donation is not possible at this time.
25—Have faith in others. Believing in the best in others is 6—Reread a favorite book and then pass it along. Or find a
often a self-fulfilling exercise and prophecy. recommended new read which is uplifting or powerful.
24—Give a compliment. Maybe you can fill a day with sincere 5—Take a walk. Think and note what you love about what crosses
(and sometimes unexpected) compliments. Genuine comments your path. It's the simple things.
which uplift others are always appreciated and even have the 4—Give a warm greeting to one who might not expect it.
power to change the course of the recipient's day for the better. 3—Everyone loves fresh flowers. Visit a local florist and treat
23—Keep hope alive. Whether for yourself or another, yourself or someone who needs a day brightener.
remember, It's impossible to exhaust all possibilities. 2—Make time, then savor the moment.
22—Hug someone in your household. Right now! If you're 1—Express gratitude freely. Especially to those whose presence
alone, wrap your arms around yourself in a giant bear hug. matters in your life. Not just on Valentine's Day. Today.
21—Make a favorite meal and share a plate with a solitary About Karen
neighbor. Email Karen with your article ideas (especially as to day brighteners
20—Reflect on a happy moment from childhood. Maybe it was to share with other Neapolitans):
shared with another family member - have you been out of touch? Napleskcc@gmail.com.
Rekindling this memory can help you reconnect or lift their spirits. Follow her on Instagram for colorful stories and inspiration from
19—Take time to listen deeply to someone who is having Life in Naples: @naplesbythenumbers
difficulties. Just listen. Be at their side and care. Compassion is a
superpower.
46 Life in Naples | February 2023