Happy Valentine's Day, Almost!

When I was in elementary school one of the most stressful days of the year was Valentine's Day. For several days leading up to February 14, all of us made our personalized mailbox - using materials like cereal boxes, oatmeal canister or a shoe box with tons of glitter, construction paper and paint.

Then the dreaded day came. I brought in my mailbox and waited to see if anyone would give me a Valentine's card. I didn't understand at the time that every child had to bring enough cards for everyone in the class! When the day was over and I realized that my mailbox was filled with Valentine's card, I couldn't wait to get home and read all of them. Actually, I just looked through the cards and found the ones that had small candy bars taped to them!

Years have passed and my stress about Valentine's Day is gone. Even though this day is just another "Hallmark Holiday" rooted in no meaningful history, I've learned to enjoy it and believe that it's good to have a day that encourages intentionality and creativity in expressing our love to each other - whether it's with a spouse, a child or a close friend. It may come through flowers, balloons, special dates, long walks, a romantic evening or even a card with a piece of candy taped on it! You may go out to a fun restaurant, cook together at home, or order in. You may watch a movie or go to the symphony. Just be intentional and put some thought into how you express your love.

But remember this: No matter how creative you are at expressing love on Valentine's Day, it won't make up for weeks or months of poor communication or silence or lack of connection beforehand. When a relationship is stuck or in a hard spot, Valentine's Day can be very painful. In those situations, it may be better to acknowledge the truth and discuss a better way forward instead of showering gifts and pretending like the problem doesn't exist. Sometimes, the best way to say "I love you" starts with "I'm sorry".

So, wherever you are in preparation for Valentine's Day this year, be intentional. Engage in an honest and meaningful way. Express your love. And don't forget, as cartoonist Charles Schultz once said, “All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.”