I always get a great surge of joy in my heart whenever my youngest son stops playing long enough to wrap his arms around me and give me a hug. I still feel a special tingle too whenever I kiss my wife goodbye as she leaves for work. I also feel like I am wrapped up in a blanket of happiness whenever I hear my wife or one of my children say, "I love you" to me.

These are such simple things: a hug, a kiss, and a few words and yet they bring so much goodness, joy, love, peace, and happiness to life. Out of all the little things that we can do to make this world a better place I think that these three are among the greatest.

A hug lets your whole body feel healthy and alive inside. It gives you energy, lowers your blood pressure, and lets you feel connected to another human soul. A kiss can bring so much joy into your being. It is the surest way to show someone you care for them and it allows you to share the love that dwells deep within your soul with another.

Saying, "I love you", is the most wonderful thing you can ever say to another person. It brings two lonely souls together in joy and it helps to bring light and delight to this sometimes cold and dark world.

Start now then to share these beautiful gifts with those around you. Wrap your arms around someone you care about and give them a hug. Share a kiss with a loved one. It doesn't matter if it is on the lips, cheek, head, or hand. Say, "I love you", to someone you love. Hearing those precious, magical words may change their life forever and yours as well. It is never too late to share these gifts. Be fearless in sharing them. If they are rejected by some that is alright too.

There are always many more dying to receive them. Remember, God gave you these three simple but powerful gifts of love. It would be a waste not to share them with the world.

Joe Mazzella
P.O. Box 164
Upper Glade, WV 26266