In honor of Valentine’s day this week, I wanted to post about what this holiday means to me. I get that its become very commercialized and is probably one of the busiest nights of the year for restaurants (besides mother’s day no doubt) but it still has a special place in my heart. I remember loving Valentine’s day at school because it was another holiday focused on candy (Halloween being one of my fav holidays as well) and I loved getting creative and making home made cards.
As I’ve grown up, Valentine’s day has changed in meaning- I don’t really care if I get many cards, sweets or flowers these days. I’ve never really been the type of partner to need/want gifts- I think my love language is much more focused on appreciating physical touch, quality time and receiving words of affirmation. Don’t get me wrong, I think most people like getting gifts, including me, but these days I appreciate having a date with my partner and stealing some quality 1 on 1 time over a bouquet of flowers.
I also think Valentine’s day is a rather lame excuse to show the person/people you love that you love them on just one designated day of the year. This should hopefully be a daily practice- alongside a strong gratitude practice- that reminds you of all you have to be appreciative of and reminding those who matter most to you of that constantly. But I get that it’s meant to be an extra special day so kudos to those of you who make the effort to celebrate with your sweetheart.
With Valentine’s day coming up this week, it reminds me of my reflections about if I think love enough to keep a relationship strong. The truth is I don’t know. I’d like to think love is the key ingredient in any true, loving partnership but I also know that it is messy, emotional, painful and challenging as well as magical, uplifting and powerful. With my roller coaster metaphor, I think most relationships have their ups and downs as couples navigate through the good times and the bad together. What keeps people together in the end, I’d like to learn more and hear from others their thoughts. As for me, love plays a crucial role and for now, its enough to keep the light burning in my relationships even on the rainy, cold days.
Happy Valentine’s Day and enjoy celebrating by dousing those you love in ways that feel authentic to you. ❤
K Space 