Valentine’s Day.

You know, I can remember a time when I really looked forward to Valentine’s Day. A day when I would give ‘something’ to the people who mattered most to me at the time (even if it was just the perfect card). A day when I would wait with bated breath to see if I received ‘something’ from someone who thought I was special to them (which happened more often than I thought would yessirree!).

But now? I’m not sure what I think about Valentine’s Day.

Ok, so yeah, I admit my turmoil has something to do with the current state of my marriage. Honestly, who wouldn’t be affected by that? It’s possible that once things settle down on that front, I may be able to look at Valentine’s Day as I once did in the past and welcome it back into my life with open arms.

But then again, maybe not.

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A former coworker once told me that he and his wife didn’t celebrate Valentine’s Day. I was still wore my heart-shaped rose-colored glasses at the time, though, so his words kinda shocked me. And, of course, I HAD to ask…

“Why?”

His answer was interesting. He explained that he and his wife felt it was more special to do something romantic on any other day of the year, not on the day when romance was encouraged and (for many) expected. They both felt that when romance was unexpected and spontaneous, it meant more to them.

I told him I understood what he meant, but I don’t think I really did understand. Then.

Fast forward 15 years. And I think I get it now.

I would rather have romance any time that was heartfelt and sincere and… meaningful… than have a lifetime of Valentine’s Day gifts that might have very little thought behind them (have you met my husband?) and that might be given out of a feeling of obligation.

That being said, if flowers show up for me on Valentine’s Day? I would be ok with that. You might even catch a smile on my face. I’m not nuts after all. Yeah, I know there are some that would beg to differ with that.

Just no candy. Cuz then I really will have to stab someone.