We use the word all the time, but do you ever stop to think about what love really means? Love. It's a simple enough concept. But in reality, it's a complex idea that covers many different types of adoration, affection, respect and enjoyment. This one little verb means so much—and speaks volumes in a single syllable.

This Valentine's Day, we don't want to talk about romantic love or your love for rich chocolate. We want to talk about a more generalized kind of love, one that is being spread through words and letters.

The World Needs More Love Letters is a project started by Hannah Brencher that sends bundles of handwritten letters to people in need. The letters are written by volunteers and addressed to people that they've never met (and probably will never meet). The goal is to spread love and kindness, one sheet of paper at a time.

When Hannah started writing love letters back in October 2010, she never imagined that they would reach so many people—or that the movement would grow so huge. "I didn't start writing letters to strangers because of a love for the handwritten note," she explains. "I was struggling to get out of bed every morning and I needed an escape from my own sadness and loneliness. So I began rioting letters on the train to individuals who seemed like they, too, could use a boost."

In the past year, The World Needs More Love Letters has generated over 1,600 love letters. Want to join the movement? Hannah is always looking for more writers to contribute, either through bundled letters or singular notes. Or, if you happen to know someone who needs a bit of extra love, you can request a love letter for a friend, family member, or even a neighbor who seems a bit down.

Take a few minutes today and help spread the love with a sentiment that's sweeter than candy and made by hand.