New Meaning to Valentine’s Day

For those single parents who spend Valentine’s Day alone,
don’t let the hype of the holiday misguide or depress you.
Much in the same way that Christmas has become over
commercialized, maybe the same thing has happened with
Valentine’s day.

As I learned from my first Christmas as a single parent
this past December, you should never lose an opportunity
to express love to the important people in your life,
be it a lover, spouse, dating friend, or family member.
With time, we all come to realize its the quality time
you spend with these significant people during the holidays
that you should cherish much more than the gifts you exchange.
I found even more meaning with spending Christmas with my
family this year from all the unconditional support they
give me.

Once I moved away from my family after college, I made a
Valentine’s Day tradition of bringing over flowers to my
mother and sister. I continued the tradition through my
marriage, divorce and will continue doing it. Its a way
to celebrate the people who mean the most to you. Truth
be known, one shouldn’t need a man-made holiday as an
excuse to express your feelings.

Anyway, most single parents should obviously exchange
Valentine’s cards/gifts with their children as well.
Hopefully, they’ll grow up and continue to return the
favor. You don’t need to be married or dating someone
to celebrate the holiday.

I guess I refuse to let the fabricated hype affect my
mood. To me, as long as you can count the blessings in
your life, be grateful for them, and spend quality time
with the people who make your life meaningful, they
haven’t designed a Hallmark card that can top that!
If one of those blessings happens to include a new
romantic interest or someone you’re dating, add them
to the “list.”