How to Love Singles this Valentine’s Day

All married people were once single – but it’s surprising how quickly we forget what it was like to navigate everyday life as a single person.

Sometimes that “memory loss” is evident in the way we interact with singles. Perhaps, without meaning to, we ask insensitive questions or brush aside their heartfelt fears and concerns with a pithy statement.

Other times that memory loss manifests itself in what we don’t do: We fail to invite our single friends over to dinner at the house. We neglect praying for them. We don’t include them in our own lives.

For many singles (and those who are single-again), Valentine’s Day can be an especially difficult time of the year. It’s a day when those of us who are married can reach out in love to our single brothers and sisters and help bring a smile to their face. A simple gift… a card… a hug… an act of service can go a long way to encouraging that single person that he or she is loved, appreciated and valued.

Today’s broadcast features author Dr. Gary Chapman, author of “The Five Love Languages: Singles Edition” and Lisa Anderson, Focus’ director of young adults and host of “The Boundless Show,” our weekly podcast for single young adults. They share how married people can bless singles by acknowledging their emotional needs. Their conversation is also a good one for singles to listen to, as it covers ways singles show and receive love – things that can help dating couples get a head start on a healthy pursuit of marriage.

You can listen to “Love Languages: Equipping Single Adults” online, on the radio, or via our free mobile phone app.