Valentine’s Day is often associated with flowers, chocolates, and romantic gestures, but for Belgian cyclist Wout van Aert, it’s about something deeper—love, kindness, and giving back. In a heartwarming gesture, Van Aert spent the early hours of Valentine’s Day in a way that truly embodies the spirit of the holiday: by spreading love to children in need.
Van Aert, who is known for his impressive achievements in cycling, took to social media to share how he chose to spend his morning. “Valentine is about love and giving,” he said. Before focusing on his wife and family, he decided to take some time for a meaningful act of kindness. Early that day, he visited an orphanage to give and show love to the adorable children living there.
“I bought some gift items for them, spent quality time with them, and gave away a few bicycles,” Van Aert shared, recounting the experience. The act was not just about material gifts, but about connecting with the children, offering them attention, and creating memories that would last a lifetime.
For many, the sight of children receiving love and attention from someone as well-known as Van Aert would be enough to brighten their day. But it was the smiles on the children’s faces that left a lasting impression on the cyclist. “The smiles on their faces were priceless. It felt so good,” he said, expressing the joy he felt from the simple but meaningful interaction.
Van Aert’s gesture goes beyond the surface-level gift-giving typically seen on Valentine’s Day. It was an opportunity to touch lives in a more profound way. He demonstrated that love doesn’t always have to be shown in grand, romantic gestures; sometimes, the most powerful acts of love come from small, selfless actions that make a difference in someone else’s life.
In today’s world, where materialism can often overshadow true compassion, Van Aert’s actions are a beautiful reminder of what Valentine’s Day is truly about. “Let love lead today,” he wrote, encouraging others to take a moment and make the day about more than just romantic relationships. Whether it’s family, friends, or even strangers, showing kindness and spreading love can have a ripple effect that brings joy and warmth to others.
In the end, Van Aert’s visit to the orphanage wasn’t just a good deed—it was a powerful reminder that love is best when it’s shared, especially with those who need it most.