Valentines: Vive la Revolution!

Valentines day. Some of us love it, some of us hate it, some of us don't celebrate because we're single (stick around – or scroll down-, there's a snippet for you too!) and some of us resent it because it feels like just another holiday meant for stores to get more money out of us.

I'll admit, I've fallen into each category in the past. However, this year, I've decided to change my views and recreate the holiday for myself.

Sure, a lot of people love chocolates, cards, flowers, lingerie, or any number of gifts and special date nights come the holidays, and a lot of corporations are banking on just that. So let them. To each their own, but that doesn't mean that their concept has to dictate how I feel about Valentines or what I choose to do with my time on the day of. Yes, I am of the belief that appreciation and affection should be shown 365 days of the year, not just on Valentines, but the reality is that our society has changed and it is all too easy to become overwhelmed and lose track of time with those we love, so Valentines often serves as a good reminder to take the time to express those important sentiments. I say, let's turn the reminder into something a little more significant and lasting.

Let's take our experiences on Valentines day and use them to remember how we once romanced each other, to take the time to remind ourselves of the little things we fell in love with, the things that made us truly appreciate having that special someone in our lives. To let them know. Most importantly, let's take note of these memories, thoughts, and feelings and figure out how best to make them a habit rather than waiting another 365 days to revisit them. Pamper each other, not necessarily with store bought favours, but with shared communication, sentiments, and feelings.

Here are some things to ask yourself, I invite you to share your results with your significant other.

What is it about them that you fell in love with?

What are three little things they do for you all of the time that you appreciate?

What is one thing you deeply admire about them?

How often have you communicated those things to them, when was the last time? There are so many things we love about our partners. We know it, but do they? We tell them a few times, and far too often we simply expect them to hold on to that knowledge forever. But let's be honest, reminders are always nice and more often than not, few and far between.

Thoughts and feelings you have towards that person, would bring about that smile you love to see on their face so much more with a little more communication.

Want to buy chocolates and flowers on valentines? Go right ahead! But you just watch how much closer you'll all become if you extend the holiday and shower it with the lovely thoughts inside your mind.

Single?

Then the same thing goes for you. Remind yourself of the things you love about yourself and the person you choose to be every day. Remind yourself of your triumphs, the things you have worked hard to overcome, the effort you are putting towards your dreams, your perseverance, and your accomplishments. Remind yourself of the strength you demonstrate when you get out of bed each morning to face the day, and take the time to pamper yourself, to remind yourself to take the time for you. You should be just as special to you as any significant other.

Wish you could celebrate with chocolate and flowers? Then by golly, find a way to treat yourself as you would anyone else. I sometimes buy cheap flowers and chocolates from the grocery store simply because I want to feel special and show myself a little appreciation after a hard week. Romance movies and couples don't own the copyright to candle lit meals and bubble baths!

Put your feet up, enjoy a nice rom com or action flick! Make some time to celebrate you, you don't deserve it any less than anyone else!

Valentine's is the holiday of love, so by golly, love thy selves!

Cheers!

The Bra Street Rambler