Opening the small paper held together with Elmers glue she found the words, You Are My Valentine signed with XOXOXO, Mom. This was only the beginning of many encouraging notes and cards she would receive from her mother, up until she turned 39 years old and her mother passed away.

A mother who was loving but not always cool, calm and collected. A mother who a few times gave in to fits of rage. But a mother who undoubtedly loved her daughter and sacrificed much as she raise a child alone. A mother who not only signed her paper cards xoxox, but who also gave hugs and kisses to the child along with other family and friends.

Growing up with this kind of mother, has in turn rubbed off on me. We were teasingly called the “kissy, huggy cousins” however, another aunt was guilty of kissing your cheeks and making a loud smacking noise, to which also rubbed off on me. Though deemed mushy, I never questioned the sincerity of the love shown.

I sign many cards and notes to family and friends this way. When the world of texting started to be a big part of my life I even texted xoxoxox to my Hubs and kids. I wouldn’t say out of habit, as I don’t always do it. But it is an expression of my love however, it hasn’t always been taken this way. I was recently told by two people that mean the world to me, family people… that my xoxoxo was viewed as insincere and quite frankly a little annoying. Nothing breaks your heart harder, leaving it with a lasting ache than, when someone you deeply care for hits you with such hard words.

Sometimes, people express themselves without even thinking of the impact they’re making. Sometimes people are coming from a hurtful place themselves, and sometimes people are just mean. These people can even be your family….sometimes you are even that person.

Please join me as we grow to love sincerely… at all times, all people.

“Lord, you love us so deeply, and sacrificed your life for us. May this love rub off on us your children so that we can love the same way. Bring healing and peace to those hurting. In Jesus name Amen.”