Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate your love, not only with your husband, wife or partner, but to show love for all those you cherish and value.
Certainly, you don’t have to buy a gift for everyone, but making a phone call to your parents, grandparents, a mentor or single friends to tell them how much you love and appreciate them will make them feel like $1 million. Sending a card with especially thoughtful sentiments shows that you value their love and support. You don’t have to spend a fortune—go to your local dollar store and pick up a package of Valentine’s cards.
There may be those who lost a husband, wife or partner and perhaps friends without a special love in their life while you do. Reach out to them and let them know how much they are loved.
I doubt guys will get into this one, but I can imagine a group of women BFFs without significant others could celebrate their friendship with a Valentine’s Day Girls Night Out.
For newer marriages or relationships, the traditional flowers + candy + dining out formula works just fine. If you’ve been married or in a committed relationship for awhile, you may want to celebrate more quietly, knowing your love is secure. A romantic dinner at home, just you two, might be exactly what you need to kindle the love sparks.
One of the most appreciated gifts, no matter what other gift you buy, is a love letter. A love letter doesn’t always have to be only to the man or woman you sleep with, but to anyone you appreciate.
Many years ago, I took the time to send a card to my mother-in-law, Reggie (now gone) and told her how much I loved and appreciated her, that she was truly my second mom. I mentioned things that I learned from her and how it helped my life. Reggie was so thrilled that she showed it to all her friends. The next time I went to visit her, each of her friends came up to me and told me about how loved and valued she felt.
I so regret that I didn’t think to write my Mom and Dad such a letter when they were alive. I doubt there’s many folks who don’t have some issues with their parents. Send your parents (or gasp, your in-laws) a love letter any way, telling them how you appreciate what you have learned & value from them. See how this small act can change the focus of your relationship and maybe create stronger ties of love.
I ask all who read this post to send Valentine’s Day love wishes to everyone in your life who touches your heart!
