“We are most alive when we’re in love,” wrote the novelist John Updike. If we take Updike’s view, Valentine’s Day, February 14, is a very “alive” day each year. But is Valentine’s Day just for couples in love?
Emphatically, no—Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love in all its forms. Consider extending Valentine’s wishes or celebration to these relationships in your life.
Yourself
Maybe even before you express love to a romantic partner, take Valentine’s Day as an invitation to reflect lovingly on who you are, what you do, what you stand for, and what you are becoming. Say “I love you” to….you!
Neighbors
A neighbor is a unique relationship, one in which you are connected by chance circumstance as much as any other factor. Not all neighbors are at the Valentine-level, but those who are thoughtful, kind, fun, inclusive, or whose gardens or paint colors you admire would love to hear from you on Valentine’s Day. You never know when a surprise message turns someone’s whole day around.
Family
Greeting card companies make Valentine’s Day cards for grandparents, grandkids, aunts, uncles, and siblings, in addition to spouses and partners. But why not extend the celebration to include cousins, in-laws, godparents, any family members who light up your life and would love to feel the love from you?
Friends
An abiding friendship is aptly described as a love-filled relationship. Drop a note to a friend whose support, laughter, insight, and patience has enriched your life, to say thank you and to assure them that they are loved.
Who will you wish a Happy Valentine’s Day this year?
