Who doesn’t like Sweethearts? (Actually, I really don’t)
Today is Valentine’s Day. People all over the country, maybe even all over the world, are acknowledging the loves of their lives. Today flowers will be received. Chocolates (or dare I say chocolate-covered strawberries) will be devoured. Cards will be read, kisses and hugs shared, and for some, the day may end (if it didn’t already start) with a passion-filled romp in the sack (or kitchen or car or, well you get the picture).
I’m not interested in maligning Valentine’s Day. I know there are those who argue that it’s just another commercially-driven, Hallmark holiday and maybe it is, but so what?! It’s still a day that people, for better or worse, have carved out to remind others and be reminded of the love they have for their partners, friends, children, family, pets, what have you. Should we be expressing our love to each other every day? Sure! You have no argument from me. But I don’t think Valentine’s is about expressing your love, nor do I think it precludes you from expressing your love every day, should you choose. I think Valentine’s is just another day we get to make intentional, sometimes showy, demonstrations of affection for special people in our lives. Might we be feeding corporate money-making schemes? Maybe, but when I think about all the times I saw flowers, candy, and my special meal waiting for me when I came home, I wasn’t thinking about the authenticity of Valentine’s Day. I was thinking about how great it was that when this person I loved reflected on the special person in their life, it was me who came to mind and that the flowers and candies and what have you was their way of saying, “People all across the country are thinking of their special one, and I’m thinking of you.”
This year (and for the first time in five years), I’m riding solo this Valentine’s Day but don’t cry for me, Argentina. I’ve enjoyed some really nice Valentine’s Day gestures. So even though I did not have a tin full of Skittles waiting for me when I got home this year (I’m not really a box of chocolates kind of gal), I’m happy for all the people out there enjoying the attention of someone who cares for them. Bask in the feeling of being someone’s object of affection today, and if you play your cards right, you might round out your night with a passion-filled romp after all ;-).
Happy Valentine’s Day everyone!!
Happy Rants 