Suddenly I realize why single women hate Valentine’s Day.
I managed to survive the endless loops of on-air interviews of cute couples totally in love, only to find out that the pizzas at the local restaurant only came in heart shape. Fortunately I learned that the proceeds went to a good cause, so a complete freak-out was avoided.
Historically, whether I was single or not, Valentine’s Day didn’t mean much to me. That’s because I apparently was never really in love or knew what love was. Until now.
Unfortunately I have only come to understand what love is, now that I have lost it.
I used to think love was being comfortable with someone or the butterflies in your stomach when you kiss.
It is that but, it is so much more.
Love is that feeling of coming home, of safety and security with one person.
Love creates a vacuum where you and that other person can exist against all odds, where things make sense in a world that rarely does. The vacuum can be created by a stolen kiss or a shared, knowing glance.
Love is someone cleaning out your car, but not telling you because they want to see the expression on your face when you see it.
Love is that feeling of joy when someone turns to you and says, “you become more interesting, every time I see you.”
Love creates a flutter in your chest so strong that you are dizzy. I actually went to the doctor’s once to have it checked out – that was kind of embarrassing when I realized what it was.
Love is that feeling that puts a smile on your face because you’ve made another person laugh.
All of those things are love, but having stuffed bears, $12 boxes of chocolates or pink hearts, around us doesn’t help us to forget what we have lost (or are looking for).
The good news is, those Valentine’s Day things aren’t required to have love.
And for those single girls and those who are broken hearted, be content in the love of friends and family, until that other love comes (back) your way.
And if all else fails, avoid the heart-shaped pizza and have a second helping of dessert.
Rules for living 