Love One Another

Reaching out through acts of love in your new community can result in many blessings on so many levels. Most importantly, we are being obedient to God’s command to 'love one another' (John 13:34 ), we are also easing our own pain by taking our eyes off of ourselves, and lastly we are opening opportunities to create connection and make friends. There is nothing to lose by loving others and everything to gain! Here are some tips from After the Boxes Are Unpacked for reaching out to others and making a friend along the way.

Offer to carpool.

Send a card or write a note to someone.
Words of encouragement, praise or thanks to a neighbor, teacher, family member or someone you've recently met.

Be available.

Invite someone to lunch.
The parent of your child's classmate, a teacher or neighbor.

Find a need and fill it.
Speak with your church or call community centers and volunteer organizations in your area.

Be an initiator.

Be a good listener.

Put on a happy face and smile.
Your smile may be the first the store clerk or school receptionist has seen today.

Ask questions.
By asking a new friend questions about her, you are communicating care and interest. People love to talk about themselves!