Happy Valentine’s Day! I know some people have strong negative feelings about this day, dubbing it “Singles Awareness Day” and making gagging faces every time they witness a display of love. Personally, I think that kind of pity party is a load of crap. Now, I know what you may be thinking…”You’re married, why should I listen to you?” Well, before I met my husband when I was almost 19, I had never had a Valentine in the true sense of the word. No one ever sent me a can of Crush or a bouquet of flowers, or took me on a date. So, I understand that this “Day of Love” can totally suck if you’re not in a romantic relationship. But, here’s the thing: Valentine’s Day is not just about romantic love. It’s about the unconditional love of family who would do anything for you. It’s the love of friends who have been there with you through your ups and downs. It’s even the love of your pet who would be bored and hungry and lonely without you. Even though you may not be in a relationship right now, that doesn’t mean you don’t have love in your life.
Quite honestly, I think the existence of Valentine’s Day is kind of silly. I compare it to Thanksgiving, which as wonderful as it is with its football and food, should be unnecessary. Love and gratitude are things that should be part of our everyday lives. We shouldn’t need a special day every year to remind us that we should tell people we love them and thank them for being in our lives. Don’t wait for a reminder from Hallmark to tell people how much they mean to you. Life is short and you just never know what tomorrow will bring.
Yes, it’s nice to have a Valentine on Valentine’s Day. But, don’t feel like you’re missing out if you don’t have one. Flowers eventually wither, dinner is eaten, and chocolates disappear (and go straight to your hips). It’s love that endures. Love is precious and sacred, and if you have love in your life, any kind of love, you should count yourself lucky.
