So what happened? Now that I am an adult, how do I see Valentine's Day? A romantic day, a day of love, a day of loneliness, or just another day?
I see Valentine's Day as a day of love - all kinds of love. When I give my little granddaughter a valentine, she doesn't question why she is getting it, she just accepts it. When she gives me a valentine, I know it is because she loves me. I give valentines to my children, my friends, my famiy, and yes, my romantic love interest - my husband.
Many of my friends don't have romantic loves in their life. They may not have ever had them, may have lost them through divorce, or through death. Should they stay hidden away and accept the lie that Valentine's Day is only for romantic couples or should they embrace the love of the day and spread it around?
Valentine's Day did not orginate as a romantic holiday. It started out as a celebration of one or more early Christian saints named Valentinus. It was not associated with romance until Geoffrey Chaucer's poetry about valentines in the 14th century.
The reason for this lesson in history is this, Valentine's Day is not just for couples. It is about love and showing love through gifts of cards, sweet candies and treats, and flowers. It doesn't matter if you are alone or surrounded by people, Valentine's Day can be fun.
I have spent my share of Valentine's Days alone and I made the most of that time. Sometimes I would line up several romantic comedy movies, pop some corn, and curl up on the sofa. Sometimes with or without my dog to cuddle with. Sometimes, I would call someone that I knew would also be alone and talk or go out with them. One time I took that time alone to make a valentine wall hanging quilt that I gave as a gift.
There are lots of ways to spend this holiday, with someone or alone. Don't let Valentine's Day be a day of loneliness or regret, let it be a day of love (for yourself).
How do you view Valentine's Day? Do you ever give valentines to your friends and family just to say "I love you"? Do you have one special Valentine's Day that you remember with joy?
If you are alone on Valentine's Day, how do you celebrate? If you don't celebrate, why?
XOXO