February 14th. The 45th day of the year. Just another day, really. Hallmark Holiday. There is not a law in humanity that says we must celebrate how wonderful love and relationships are on this particular day. But......
Societal pressures abound. Where do you go that you do NOT get inundated with cards, chocolates, flowers, hearts hanging from every surface - all in colors of pink, white and shades of red. You must profess your love and affection for the object of said love and affection.
What if you don't have one? What if you have no special love for whom to buy a heart shaped box of chocolate? No one to whom you can send a romantic card? No one who will send you one? No flowers arriving at your door via FTD delivery man?
Well. Let's not despair. Really. It's possible not to do so. We can decide not to mope about this lack of romantic interest in our lives, or we can mope, eat a whole box of chocolates ourselves that we bought for ourself. Which will it be?
We single folks can also decide to celebrate a day that focuses on love with all those we love in ways other than romantic. Myself? I bought cards for my kids, and for other single friends who will not have romantic cards sent to them. My cards will tell them how precious they are as friends. My children will also get individual notes in each of their cards, letting them know how unique each one of them is and how desperately I love them.
Another terrific idea would be to have a fabulous party...a wine tasting, a potluck, a dessert extravaganza...for all your single friends, or folks who don't have family near. Just having an excuse for fellowship is a terrific way to celebrate the holiday of love.
If you don't have friends, or some family you'd have for a party...how about giving a card or chocolate to your neighbor, a co-worker, a pastor, an old teacher, a nursing home resident, your mailman or paper delivery boy. Someone in your life would love attention on Valentine's Day as much as you would appreciate it. Give, celebrate loving people like Jesus does.
Speaking of Jesus, could there be any greater love to celebrate than His? Is He not the best Valentine there is? If you will be alone on February 14th, why not make yourself a special dinner, a glass of wine, a treat for dessert - and then sit and rejoice in the Father's love for you, in the gift of Jesus to your life - listen to worship music, dance in your kitchen, light candles...and celebrate the most fabulous love in your life. The truest lover of your soul; Jesus.
You are His Beloved, His Bride..He sings over you with delight when you are His.
Love to you My Valentine's...really.....
We are not alone...we have each other as we are on this quest called, 'Single'.
Gayle, when I was a single mother of four, I would find a young couple at church that had little ones and volunteer to be their sitter for the night. That way they were able to get out and celebrate their love and I was able to reflect the love of Christ for their marriage. Also I always stressed, as I still do that there is only one true love of our soul, and only one true love that can provide all that our hearts desire, that is Christ Alone!
ReplyDeleteExcellent post Gayle. I like how you take a wider snap-shot of love on Valentines Day than couples.
ReplyDeleteI like your tie into Jesus' love. He is the best Valentine. Perhaps when you get to heaven Jesus is the first to meet you with a box of chocolate, flowers, and a card.
It's sad to see pure and good things like the Christmas, Easter, and Love being reduced into a product to sell. Love is now represented by a card, flowers, and chocolates. I like your love stories much better. Real love can't be packaged or half off after VD.
I actually like Valentines day. I see it as a cheesy commercial mess that causes more hurt than help, especially for those not in a relationship. But, when looking at it with a wide angle lens. It's a reminder to be a better LOVER. VD is like the new years day of love. The kickoff to a year long love affair with EVERYONE! Enjoy the first of a 365 day love celebration.
One of my favorite VD memories was from elementary school. We decorated shoe boxes and everyone handed out small cards with candy, proclaiming our affection for one another. Everyone got them. Even the people who seemed to ignore you were now in love with you. For a few hours on February 14 everyone loved everyone, and all was right with the world.