On the surface, Valentine’s Day is the simplest holiday. It’s a day for celebrating love! But love is anything but simple. That’s why, for many people, Valentine’s can be a difficult day. A day that prompts loneliness, regret, and even grief. As a result, this is often the most complicated of holidays. So, this year, we want to recognize all the ways this day affects people.
For some, this may be your first Valentine’s Day without your spouse, partner, or significant other. We know many people who have lost loved ones in recent years. We know you will be feeling that loss even more sharply on days like this. Whether you choose to honor their memory by going to your shared favorite restaurant, listening to songs that remind you of them, or simply sitting and thinking, we know they are in your thoughts. Please know that you are in ours.
Valentine’s Day has a reputation as being a time for injecting a little romance into our relationships. But some people have been trying so hard, for so long, to do just that. Not one day, but every day. Relationships are hard. For those who are experiencing trying times in their relationships, who feel like they are constantly trying to roll a boulder up a hill, we see you. We know the physical, mental, and emotional toll it takes to keep a relationship going. So, this Valentine’s Day, we send you thoughts of encouragement and renewed energy. You’re amazing.
For those who have experienced divorce or separation, or are going through that process now, we understand the raging whirlwind of emotions you must be feeling. Whether it’s peace and quiet you yearn for, a fun evening with friends, or just a sense of normalcy, we wish you a Valentine’s that provides what you need. (Rather than one that requires you to give something of yourself.) I’m sure you’ve heard that divorce is not so much the end of something as the start of something. We can’t wait to see where your journey takes you, and we’re rooting for you all the way!
Love is something we all want — but it’s not always easy to find. For those who are still looking for their special someone, remember that we are not defined by our relationships, even if society sometimes makes it feel that way. It’s who you are inside and what you contribute to the world that makes you valuable. It’s you that matters — not your relationship status.
Finally, for anyone for whom this day evokes painful memories of any sort, we wish you strength, comfort, and peace. Tomorrow is a new day.
Wherever your heart is this Valentine’s Day, know that our hearts are with you.
Whatever relationships you have or don’t have, know that Tina, Kara and myself cherish the relationship we have with you.
And on this Valentine’s Day, this day for celebrating love, know that we are grateful for you. Please let us know if we can ever be there for you in any way.
On behalf of Tina, Kara and myself, we wish you a very happy Valentine’s Day.