Confession #1
I was the girl in grade school who romantically envisioned that her carefully decorated, home made paper bag Valentine holder would be brimming full of sweet somethings from admirers…secret and known, teachers, friends and the like. Alas, as fate would have it, there was no bag small enough to make mine seem full.
Confession #2
I was the day-dreaming high school girl that waited every Valentines Day for her “secret love” with his long hair, vision street wear high tops and skate board in hand, to reveal himself with the standard high school valentine…a red carnation. Heck, I would’ve even settled for a white one. But every year I waited, and EVERY YEAR, he never came.
Confession #3
I was a valentine hater, a red carnation hater, and a valentine bag hater!
Now you must continue to understand my final confession:
When I was about 17 my father (who pastors a church) started a church tradition. First I must say that my father is not given to flights of fancy nor is he big on what he calls “hallmark” holidays, better known as money makers with no apparent purpose other than to…well, make money. He does however, love paving the way to new traditions.
One day he announced that we would have a “love week” leading up to Valentines Day. We were to consider “giving” to someone or a lot of someones. Anonymously… or not, big or small. Just give!
I was unsure of how I felt about this, I mean what was Valentines Day if it wasn’t about me sitting around waiting for my cheap carnation and romantic ideals to be crushed. But I did it! I gave! The heavens spread open, lights shone down, angels sang and…ok maybe it wasn’t that dramatic, but my Valentines Day was forever changed.
This day was no longer about my proverbial carnation, cheap chocolates and over sized balloons. It became a day that I celebrated all things beautiful… family, friends, creativity and above all actual, honest to goodness LOVE! As the Beattle so eloquently put it….
All you need is love (all together now)
All you need is love )everybody)
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.
So on Valentine’s Day, I remember that it’s not all about me or lovers. It’s a perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the people we care about, like finding a thoughtful gift such as a stylish bow case for someone who loves archery. I challenge you to give gifts this year, big or small, many or just a few, handmade or purchased, like a lovely pine scented shampoo, to friends or strangers. Cause after all, everyone needs a little (or a lot of) love!
Confession #4: I am a Valentine junkie and I am not ashamed!
I have to say, I didn't see this last year – but I had to smile a lot as I read it – knowing you as I do (because I am your mom)and knowing your dad as I do (because, well, he's my/your….well, you know – husband/dad/pastor….)it brought a flood of memories and smiles back! And what a blessing to see how it impacted your life! (tradition is still going: only now it is for a MONTH [blessing month] – this year is with missionary focus!) WOW – 22 year tradition and going strong (we celebrate 25 years as a church this May)!!!!
So happy you are healthy and able to enjoy this Valentine's day! Bless you, dear daughter! with much love, Mom
As someone whose former nickname is Femi-nazi I must say admitting my love for Valentines Day was pretty difficult. But yeah, I love it for all the reasons you do. We tend to make fizzy bath bombs and scented lotions for our loves, but if you want to teach me how to make hand-tempered chocolates I won't stop you. Happy Valentines Day, Jenni!