Embrace It.

So it's almost THAT time of year again. Yes, the dreaded "V" Day! Valentine's Day. There was a time that I boycotted this holiday. Truth be told, until I found my husband I had never had a boyfriend on Valentine's Day. I never planned it that way. It just so happened, which in retrospect seems a little odd or perhaps telling? Anyway, when this overrated, over-hyped, under-wanted holiday rolled around I had decided for many years that it was a day in which I would embrace those I truly loved...my friends.

We'd get together and hit the movie theaters. We'd indulge in chocolate in the form of candy bars, popcorn, and later enjoy each other's company for wine and dinner. Never was there a mention of the lack of a "significant other", "ex's", or "dating" in general. It was more about us and our bonds. It was everything Valentine's Day was supposed to be; lovely, relaxing, enjoyable, and mostly spent with those we loved. It was easy and uncomplicated. The fact that I didn't have my own "special Valentine" did not escape me. The difference was that it didn't matter. I was happy and didn't feel I was missing anything.

This will be my sixth Valentine's Day with my husband. And while it's true, there is a different meaning I suppose because I have a romantic love for him, it's really not that different. I don't wish for roses; they die too soon. I don't wish for chocolates; (well, I DO but for caloric reasons I wouldn't). I don't even need a $3.00 card which will get stowed away with all the othe cards. What do I want? Time. Time spent with the person I love. Before you all sit back and say, "Of course you don't hate it. You have someone." Let me stop you right there. Yes, I'm thankful to have someone to love, not just for this day, but everyday. That's a blessing. For Valentine's Day however, for me, it's about love in general. Friends, pets, it's all good.

I guess the point is that Valentine's Day doesn't have to be about "lovers". It can be whatever we want it to be about. So this holiday don't shun it, don't boycott it, don't hide from it or hate it...embrace it! Grab someone or something you love - a friend, a dog, go it alone if you choose, and do whatever you enjoy. It is a holiday about love and whether you're attached to someone or not, there's always someone or something to love. Find it and embrace it.