Valentine’s Day is quickly coming. Some of you may cringe, cheer or just shrug. Whether you’re single, taken or somewhere else on the broad spectrum, it is a day to show someone you care. Cheap Hallmark cards and oversized teddy bears line the aisles of stores. Roses of all colors are prepped, and restaurants take reservations. None of these things reflect what love really is.
Love isn’t shown in the form of an object; it’s shown in the way you treat each other and the time you have with one another.
Love is waking up next to someone with morning breath, makeup down their face and a rat’s nest of a hairdo and you think to yourself, “Wow, how did I get so lucky to start my day with her?”
If you’re alone, take this day to love and appreciate yourself. Go enjoy a local garden or eat at your favorite restaurant. It is important to have a strong relationship with yourself and to love yourself. Buy yourself flowers, bring home a chocolate cake for one, or rent your favorite movie. Alone time shouldn’t be sad. Treat yo’ self.
If you’re dating someone, don’t be cliche. Nothing about a Walgreens teddy bear and a packaged set of chocolates says “I love you.” All it says is that you’re unoriginal and don’t truly know your partner. Try a hike and picnic, or a day trip out of town. Listen to your partner, or even ask them what they want. Give someone your presence, not presents.
For those between. just spread the love. Grab a bottle of wine for yourself, and maybe one for them, too. Make Valentine’s Day count, and show someone you love them — even if it’s yourself.