I used to like Valentines Day, or at least tolerate it. I can remember when I was first married I would get quite excited about it, though it never really met with expectations! I remember, when the 'first flush' was over, that I'd try to make a nice meal at home with candles etc. but secretly wish for more. Then what happened? Kids I guess, they took most of the effort and most of the love and by the time they were easier it was too late to rekindle? Maybe.
At work today, during a rare lunchbreak, we all sat around the table and someone asked "who has already had some roses delivered then?" We all shook our heads, none of us, not the singles, not the newly weds, not the old marrieds or the divorced - no one. Are our expectations too high? It's supposed to be a busy day for florists countrywide - so who the hell gets the roses?!
I did however send a card...to mum from us all, she loved it. And I bought some heart chocolates and mugs to put them in ... for the children - chocolates now eaten! And I bought myself a mug too, with a heart, just because I liked it.
At work I have been mentoring a student who doesn't really have any real friends. I have been working with him on good and bad qualities that people possess and asking him to locate his own qualities. He couldn't think of anything positive about himself, not one thing - so theres a lot of work to be done. I'm not sure if he understands yet that to love others, you have to first love yourself...
So, on Valentines Day... love yourself - and you'll never be disappointed!
Happy Valentines X
I think it's very difficult for some youngsters to find anything good within themselves. They are so judgemental - of themselves and others. It's sad isn't it? I hope you've had some smiles today. :) x
ReplyDeleteMy son would sometimes say something similar, and I find it very sad to hear. There's been no sign of Valentines in this house at all - even Smiley did not bring home a card for me this year and my son is now in secondary so there'll be none from him from now on either!
ReplyDeleteI think the point of Valentine's Day is just to rekindle the romance of whatever relationship you're in. Little presents are a bonus, but lots of hugs and kisses and sweet nothings are all that's really needed.
ReplyDeleteHow sad that someone can't think of a single positive quality in himself. He must have had a very indifferent or censorious upbringing. I hope you can help him to value himself more highly.
Proud to say I provided my wife with a rose, chocolates and a much desired DVD. Guess I'm just old school.
ReplyDeleteThat was a really thoughtful post. I know my daughter always finds Valentine's Day hard and so must millions of other divorced, widowed or singles without partners so I really think it is all very overdone and hyped up.
ReplyDeleteYes....... you are right. We cannot love others if we don't love ourselves.
That unfortunate student is typical of a good few others these days. Fortunately, confidence often grows with age.
Maggie x
Nuts in May
I think Valentine's Day has gotten over-hyped; it just puts pressure on people to give gifts. Of course, my husband doesn't feel the least bit pressured.:) I almost bought myself some flowers!
ReplyDeleteSo sad about the student, but as Maggie said, I think it's all too typical today. I'm sure that with time you can help him to see himself in a more positive way.