A lot of people hate Valentines Day. There have been years when I wasn’t crazy about it either. But I’ve come to realize that Valentines Day is a day to celebrate love. What’s bad about that?
I know it sounds like I’m about to get sappy, but I assure you this isn’t the case. I have a decidedly un-romantic view of love, and I don’t think that’s a bad thing. I think the problem is that when people hear the word love, they automatically think romance. “Love at first sight”, and all that. And that’s what messes things up. Most people confuse romance with love. I don’t believe one equates the other. They are two very separate things. They do tend to compliment each other nicely. But also, they can just as often get in the way of each other.
I’m certainly not anti-romance. It’s a wonderful part of life. It gives you a euphoric feeling…a high. But that only lasts a short time. Once the euphoria is over, that’s when you really find out whether or not you love someone.
And I don’t believe there is more than one category of love. Whether it’s the love, we have for our mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, children, or best friends, it’s all the same.
Today I received a valentine from my four-year old nephew, who I love dearly, and he loves me too. He often says so. To me, that’s what Valentines Day is all about.
Romance…that happens when it happens. And of course, when it does, it’s beautiful, and thrilling and all that. But love is far more important. And love isn’t always beautiful and fun. Sometimes it’s difficult. And other times we don’t even notice it’s there. But without it, we probably wouldn’t get through life.
So if you’re feeling badly today about the lack of love in your life, just think of all the people who mean something to you. Chances are, you already have plenty.
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