Remember when Valentine’s Day used to be fun and exciting? I remember when I was dating my husband and I would set up these elaborate surprises for him. I couldn’t wait to see how happy he was and it was just as fulfilling to me to plan it all and see his reaction. The anticipation was exhilarating.
At this point in my life, when I’m knee deep in children, work and school obligations, Valentine’s Day isn’t a high priority item on my to do list. After getting the kid’s valentine’s ready for their classmates, bringing in treats for their preschool parties, thinking of getting your husband a gift, but fail, I’m happy to have the day here and over with. I don’t necessarily resent it, but I don’t make a huge effort. BUT, it is a nice reminder to stop and reflect on my relationships.
Relationships
I am grateful for the relationships in my life. Being that it is “love” day, I am grateful for my husband. With everything that we’ve been through recently, he is still there for me when I need him. He’s there to pick me up when I’m down, and cheer me on when I’m worried about a situation. He is helpful around the house, and is trying to make himself better everyday. Our relationship may not be the best it’s ever been, but I am grateful for the lessons we are learning within our marriage and within ourselves.
I am grateful for my children. I have been moaning and groaning about all of the things I HAVE to do. Cook, clean, keep our house in order so we can sell it, organize, clean, cook, (yes, I said that twice) plan for school events (Valentine’s) ect. these are all things that I have to do. But I was reminded yesterday that I am blessed to even have a house to cook in and clean and sell. I am blessed to have children, not only to love and nurture, but to take care of and provide for them. I am blessed to even have an opportunity to love them and be a part of their lives. I am grateful to be their mom.
Love yourself
Lastly, and most importantly, I’m taking this day to focus on the love I have for myself. I’ve lost sight of how important self-love is recently and it’s shown up in my relationships more than anywhere else. I am grateful for this journey that I’ve been on. I’ve awakened to a new way of life. Although it is not always expansive love and true belief and faith, I am learning these ways of life. I am grateful for the possibilities of a life that I can only dream of. This Valentine’s Day, I will be focusing on loving myself even more deeply, compassionately and completely.
It may sound a little selfish being that I have so many people in my life, and I “should” be focusing this love on the other relationships in my life (husband), but I know that I HAVE TO fill my cup before I can fill others.
Thank you Valentine’s Day for the reminder and reflection of what I aim to focus on. Love to you all!
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