Now please don’t think badly of me for what I am about to say, but I hate Valentine’s Day! Don’t get me wrong, my husband and I will still participate in all the “required” festivities – gifts, chocolates, and a special dinner. But, honestly, let’s recognize what it is – a day created to materialize on a sentiment that should be present each and every day of the year, not just February 14th. With that said, Valentine’s Day has some redeeming qualities. It gives school-aged children an opportunity to express gestures of love and friendship to their family and peers. I even don’t mind it during the courting stages, where an individual takes a bold step proclaiming his or her affection for that special someone. However, in committed, healthy relationships and especially marriages, every day should look like Valentine’s Day.
Unfortunately, we are living in a day and age where self is celebrated most. It is all about what we can get, rather than what we can give. We are so desperate to get our own needs met, that we neglect the needs of the people we love most, ultimately, dishonoring them. This is so contrary to what the Word of God instructs.
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. – 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
Love is not defined by a grandiose gesture that happens just once a year. A dozen roses or a box of chocolate will not sustain a relationship when it is neglected the other 364 days in the year. Offering understanding, respect, encouragement, and unwarranted acts of kindness are truly what a “loving” relationship requires.
Ladies, we need to realize that love is an ongoing expression that is seen mostly in the simple moments – the moments where credit is not sought after, but selfless love is the motivation. Keep in mind, this is not one-sided. Husbands and wives need to be equally demonstrative in their love and affection towards each other.
So, you see, it is not that I really hate Valentine’s Day, I just hate that we, as a society, have accepted that love need only be expressed one day a year. Love is continual. It is active. It takes effort and self-sacrifice. Please don’t settle for one day of romance when you can experience a lifetime of love!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
