February: A Month to Practice Love

February is special to me because my mother was born on the 14th. She showed me what it means to love deeply and unconditionally. Through her example, I learned that love can be hard, but it is always worth practicing, even with people who are difficult to love.

As we move through this month, often associated with hearts and cards, I invite you to reflect on love in its most authentic and most enduring forms.

Begin with Self-Love

Love begins within. Self-love is not indulgent. It is essential.

One simple practice this month is to create a small, intentional space in your home. Choose a quiet corner just for you. Place a photo of yourself there, light a candle, and include a few meaningful mementos.

Choose a time of day, perhaps morning or evening, and spend just five minutes in this space. Light the candle and speak affirmations aloud or silently.

I am worthy of love.

Mistakes do not define me. How I move forward from them does.

I am strong.

I am enough.

These small acts of self-love can be profoundly grounding and healing.

Practice Loving Others Through Connection

In our busy world, we have lost much of the art of connection. This month, take time to reach out to those you love. Make the coffee date. Plan the luncheon. Pick up the phone. Send the text.

Love is sustained through presence. These moments of connection, no matter how simple, nurture both the giver and the receiver.

Learn to Love and Forgive from Afar

One of the most challenging forms of love is learning to love those who have hurt us from afar. Self-love means protecting your inner circle so it includes only those who respect and honour you.

Forgiveness does not always mean reconciliation. I have forgiven people in my life who intentionally hurt me, and I now love them from a distance. I do not maintain contact with them. When they come to mind, I gently remind myself that I love them from afar.

I also remind myself not to allow weeds to grow in the garden of my mind.

Love as a Spiritual Practice

I am a spiritual person, and I believe in a divine presence that loves us all. As I reflect on life, I believe that in the end, when all else falls away, the only thing that truly remains is love.

Let us begin this month by honouring and acting upon the most important force that binds humans, animals, and nature together. Love.

May February be a month where we practice love intentionally, gently, and courageously. Let us begin with ourselves and allow that love to extend outward in ways that protect our peace and nourish our souls.