Big Love

When the gift is spot on

A friend described the most romantic act of love and thoughtfulness I had heard in a long time.

This act wasn’t a dozen roses. It wasn’t a sunset beach walk barefoot on the sand. Yes, these things are nice.

But this gesture came in the guise of a giant bag of salt.

Said friend lives in a place where the outdoors can become dangerous in wintertime, with snow, and ice and conditions that, I’ll admit, I do not know much about. She was snowed – and iced – in, unable to go anywhere safely. Enter the boyfriend. He asked her if he could take her out, drove to her house, and brought with him a large bag of salt which he then used to make her walkways safe for her to get to his vehicle.

Why does this stand out as pure romance? Several reasons. His care and thoughtfulness for her safety. His preparation and action involved in the act. And really, it was how it made her feel.

And that is the whole thing, right there.

Often in stories and movies the art of romance is usurped into a giant, bold, impulsive act. Running to stop the plane. Serenades that the neighbors witness. Proposing on a sports cam. Fighting a duel to the death. But there are also examples of the less dramatic that are more impactful.

These, I believe, are typically acts of kindness, carried out with love. Or, where someone shows up for another. Or accepts them just as they are.

To be seen, to be cared for, to belong, are these not the bedrock of love?