Valentine's Blessing!

I have fond memories of Valentine's Day as a child. My mother would bake
heart shaped cookies or festive cupcakes complete with party decorations and
my brothers and I were allowed to invite school friends over to share the
celebration. I appreciate the tradition my mother instilled in me and it
has been my privilege to honor a similar legacy with my own children;
still giving them some type of "Valentine" trinket into their young adult years.
However, with one week left until Valentine's Day, for many the pressure is on!
Ever since the after Christmas clearance sales, the average shopper has been
bombarded by the deluge of Valentine's Day merchandise . Lets face it--
with the exception of newly-weds and young children, most people I know
don't really enjoy Valentine's Day. Teenagers are vulnerable-- for years my
oldest daughter referred to the holiday as "Love Sucks Day" due to an untimely
break-up associated with the season! My married friends are not immune.
It's not unusual for wives to be disappointed; their husbands confused by
the significance attached to the absence of just the right sentimental card,
or flowers. For single adults, not being part of a couple during a time
advertised for couples can be downright depressing.
Years ago, I battled one such Valentine's Day myself; the first one after my
husband left. I was sick and feeling particularly lonely. My big splurge for the
day was having a heart shaped pineapple and Canadian bacon pizza delivered
for dinner. Just as the hot pizza arrived, I received an important phone call.
Anticipating the delicious comfort food, I wrapped up the phone call as quickly
as possible only to find that my little darlings, ages 8 and 3 at the time had
scarfed down all but one piece! Granted, the heart shape did make for a
smaller pizza, but even so I was not a happy camper and proceeded to indulge
myself in a real pity party--not one of my best moments.
I have since learned that St. Valentine was actually a persecuted Christian who
befriended his jail guard and prayed for his blind daughter. Her healing lead
t0 the salvation and baptism of 46 people. Valentine was martyred but not
before leaving a note for the young girl, signed "Your Valentine" which is how
the tradition of exchanging written valentines began. The scripture
"God is love" is often quoted at this time of year, but St. Valentine's example
certainly gives us perspective--especially in light of my pity party!
What does Valentine's Day represent for you? Are you single and dreading the
celebration that seems intended for couples? Or feeling pressure to find that
special expression of love to your spouse? Maybe you have a surprise planned
for your children or friends?
Wherever you find yourself through this next week, join me in remembering St.
Valentine's blessing. God is love and we are so blessed because He first loved
us. My prayer for you is that you experience His love above all else.