So, here's a problem. We live in such an over-commercialized, over-hyped society that something that ought to be a light-hearted, playful opportunity, like Valentine's Day, has become a time of disappointment for all but a lucky few.
Why are they lucky? Because they are in a relationship that is working for both parties at this moment, and they can spend an evening together at a fancy restaurant, reconfirming their commitment to each other; or snuggled up at home before the TV, or whatever.
As for the rest of the adult population, random single people or unhappily married people, Valentine's is far more likely to be a vaguely depressing night, a reminder of what we do not have in our lives, compared to the romantic myths that dictate what we should be experiencing.
So, what exactly is the right way to express your "love" for somebody, when it somehow is more than just friendship or family or obligatory symbolism? Why not eschew this capitalistic excuse to push fattening products, like chocolate candy, on each other, as much as possible. But to the extent that that strategy doesn't work, emotionally, we should strive to use this holiday as an opportunity to tell those we care about just how we feel.
In other words, it is an opportunity to be loving without any expectation of entitlement. Just purely expressive and emotional. Original art is an option.
Thus, Julia and I sent our hearts out to all who stop by this tiny little blog site.
The most radical thing we ever do is express our feelings for each other. It is safer, of course, to continue to keep to yourself whatever feelings you once had for that other person that you have not yet been able to resolve or those equally toxic hopeful feelings for someone new, not yet expressed.
To take a chance and tell somebody how you honestly feel might be, finally, a true gift, for both of you.
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