Love is a Language

Sarah Kittle
Editor-in-Chief

The second month of the year is when we turn our attention to the topic of love. We celebrate St. Valentine’s Day, devoted to lovers, smack dab in the middle. February is also when a whole lot of wedding planning takes place, leading up to a big day—and a big deal—later in the year.

In 2026, wedding trends are moving from the theatrical to the personal. Weddings—and even more so, receptions—are being treated as an experience. In this issue, we explore what that means, from bespoke jewelry and preserved florals to meaningful, interactive activities that turn guests into participants rather than spectators. Our wedding trends feature reflects a broader shift we’re seeing across culture: a desire for authenticity, intention, and connection.

If February is the month for lovers, poetry is their language. From the great Al-Mutanabbi to a relative newcomer on the scene, Fadi Sitto, poets have been setting the stage for romance, longing, and reflection since history was first recorded. Sitto’s work, featured in this issue, reminds us that poetry is not frozen in time—it evolves with the voices that carry it forward. Al-Mutanabbi, meanwhile, is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, which is why we will feature a future series exploring his original poetry.

Love also takes shape through leadership, service, and commitment to others. Coach Thaier Mukhtar’s legacy is one built on discipline, mentorship, and decades of shaping young lives—on and off the field. In a different arena, Saad Nadhir’s recognition as the Chaldean American Chamber of Commerce’s Businessperson of the Year highlights what’s possible when vision is paired with purpose. And in “Called to Serve,” we recognize everyday heroes whose quiet acts of dedication often go unnoticed, but never unfelt.

I was saddened to hear of Husam Zoro’s passing. His interview was one of the very first I conducted for Chaldean News almost five years ago, in April 2020. We kept in touch through the years, and I was blessed with his friendship. His memory is one we honor with gratitude and respect.

Love, in all its forms, is a language—spoken through words, actions, traditions, and legacy. We hope this issue speaks to you.

Sarah Kittle
Editor in Chief