February is the month of love, with Valentine’s Day falling square in the middle. When most people think of Valentine’s Day, they think of roses and chocolates and romance. I find that a bit limiting, don’t you?
There are all kinds of love in the world, and if you catch a brief glimpse of the news on any given day, it’s clear we would be well served to spread a whole lot more of it.
The older I get, the more my perception of Valentine’s Day shifts. I think about ways I can share love in my little corner of the world. I can donate non-perishable items to a food bank. I can send cards to my friends and family. I can write thank you notes to people whose selflessness and leadership has changed my life for the better. I can bake some cookies for my neighbors. I can smile at strangers in line at the grocery store. I can volunteer to help someone else.
Valentine’s Day is a timely touchstone to remind us of the power of love in our lives. And you know what they say… “you can’t truly give love to others until you learn to love yourself.”
There are a million different variations on that theme; it exists for a reason. Think about it. Doesn’t it just make sense that showing care and kindness to yourself will empower you to give more of the same away to those around you?
With that thought in mind, give yourself a big hug, and know that you are loved.
Wishing you happy hearts, this Valentine’s and always –
Jennifer