I am a strong advocate for the little gestures. Open the door open for strangers, chase the kid’s soccer ball down the pavement and kick it back to him, pay compliments, try to be larger than you are— even when it’s easier to ignore your instinct. I find that the best people in life follow their compassionate instincts, even when it’s out of their way. They put the interest of others ahead of personal conveniency. A little truly goes a long way. People do notice, people do appreciate, and people do remember. The irony is that giving good into world fuels your soul as a result; consider it the boomerang effect. Not only will someone else feel better about themselves, but so will you.
I think a lot of people in this generation struggle to wrap their head around what constitutes as true love. It’s one thing to buy chocolate, roses, or a teddy bear. The purest forms of passion are the small gestures you perform naturally to show you care. It’s all the ways you show that they are on your mind without flat out saying it. The random text midday just to check in and say “I miss you.” It’s sharing your side of fries or telling her she’s beautiful— yes, even if she’s in her sweats and baggy t-shirt from the men’s section. It’s putting down the phone when he’s telling you about his day. It’s giving your full and utmost attention to the little details about him. Always laughing at the her, even if it’s painful. Love is a game of giving. True compassion lies in understanding the little instincts. It’s the little gestures that add up in the long run, building genuine character.
1. “This reminded me of you”
2. Long hugs
3. The sidewalk rule
4. The “I” in I love you, obviously
5. Eye contact
6. Matching and encouraging your energy
7. “I want you to…” instead of “If you want to…”
8. Remembering specific dates and small details
9. “I’m proud of you”
10. “Text me when you get home”
11. Making effort to know people who are important to you
12. Inside jokes that last
13. Ability to read your expressions
14. Random yet sincere compliments
15. Pinky promise (kiss your thumb, and connect the heart after)
16. Opening up about their own interests
17. Unexpected calls and check ins
18. Asking how your day was before you ask them first
19. Being asked for your opinion
20. Words of affirmation
21. “We’ll figure it out”
22. Silent company
23. Sharing songs
23. Pictures
When it comes to someone you love, I ask you to take the vulnerable road. When a little gesture comes from someone you love, the impact means the world and more.
Much love,
Shaudeh Farjami
Much love, Shaudeh Farjami 
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