During February, love is all around, but love isn’t just about romantic gestures and sweet gifts. It’s also about the people who brighten the lives of those around them every day.
For the following students, love is found in the little things such as a listening ear.
“I love how I can always tell my friend Taylor Brooks anything,” said freshman Stella Jones.
“I love how my friend Peyton Wilson is a really good listener,” said senior Kylie Loucks.
Thoughtfulness also plays a big role in expressing love, especially for these students.
“I love how thoughtful my friend Mia Orchard is,” said junior Mary Richardson. “She is always thinking about others and doing special things for people that make them feel so loved. She has a huge heart and loves very deeply just like Jesus would. She is also very good at listening and giving advice that is very comforting, while still being supportive and genuine.”
“I love Addi because she is thoughtful,” said senior Emma Hodgman.
Sometimes, love is as simple as sharing laughter and joy as expressed by the following people.
“I love that Emma always makes me laugh and smile no matter how I am feeling,” said senior Addi Petrilli
“I love my friend Stephanie because she always makes me laugh,” said senior Summer Williamson.
“Maryn Marg is my best friend, and I love how great she is at making me laugh,” said senior Maggie Poole.
Other students admire the positivity that certain people bring into their lives.
“One thing that I love about Zach Steelman is his outlook on life,” said senior Jack Gochnour. “He’s always got a positive outlook on anything and can find a way to make the things that aren’t great, funny.”
Some people cherish the qualities of being open and kind in their friendships.
“I love that my best friend, Whitney Pilling, is open,” said senior Abby Fuhriman.
“My friend Braxton Gerard is always in a good mood, and he lifts everyone up,” said senior Wes Johnson. “He’s super kind and is nice to everyone no matter what.”
Beyond friendships, many students shared appreciation for their family members.
“I love how patient my mom is,” said junior Veronica Eliason.
For some, their parents are their greatest role models.
“One person in my life who is very special to me is my mom,” said senior Gabby Gothberg. “She has stood by me every day and is my best friend. She always puts her family first and I admire that about her. I look up to her in every way, and she is the strongest woman I know. I am beyond lucky to have her by my side.”
“I love my dad because he is true to himself and everyone around him,” said senior Brock Longson.
Sibling relationships were also a common theme, as many students expressed admiration for their brothers and sisters.
“Something that really impresses me about my brother Logan is how appreciative he is of the stuff I do for him. Logan does a good job of letting me know that he recognizes me,” said senior Nate Williams. “I think we rarely ever fight just because whenever we talk, he builds me up rather than criticizes me.”
“I love and look up to my sister Kenedee,” said junior Paisley Miller. “She is such a hard worker and a great listener. She is always there for me when I need her most.”
“I love my sister’s funny jokes and her stories that she tells from school,” said junior Carter Ditlove.
Whether it’s a best friend, a sibling, a parent, or a significant other, love comes in many forms. It is important to take a moment to appreciate the people who bring love and light into the lives of others, not just this season, but all year round.
