10 ladies write themselves a love letter

“Write your name.” I instruct the ten ladies at our weekly activity.

“Like you are writing yourself a letter, Dear [your name].” I repeat after they look at me a little uncertain.

“Done? Now write ‘I love you’.”

They look at me bewildered … then write again.

“Ok, now I want you to write a message to yourself, the words you wish someone would say but never do.”

Still bewildered.

“Like, ‘you are a great mother’ or ‘thank you for everything you do for me’ or ‘you are beautiful and attractive’ or ‘you are a good wife’ or ‘I really notice how you are always helping other people’ or ‘I really apppreciate the sacrifices you have made for me’ … ”

They start writing and writing on the little pieces of brightly coloured paper.

“Ok, now stop and pass the paper to the next lady. Keep writing your letter.”

We pass the letters on ten times. Before the letters reach their original owner the papers are placed into envelopes for the ladies to take home to read in privacy. Yay.

After the letters, the ten ladies spend the next few hours each making a beautiful poster of love to take home. I photograph and video our wonderful afternoon.

There is something really powerful about saying the words “I love you” to yourself. Try it now. Get your phone and record this message (or similar) …

Thank you for everything you have done for me, I know you have done your best. I love you. I love you.

Ok now get some headphones and play it back (and if you have time write yourself a love letter). There is a power in it.