Love

“I’m 24 and I’m never going to get a girlfriend.” 

This was part of the conversation I overheard on the BART ride home last night. He continued listing off things that were wrong with dating. His companions try to comfort him and it somehow led to arrange marriages in Japan. I couldn’t help but shake my head and chuckle. The kid is barely getting started on life; he will have plenty of opportunities for him fall in—and out of—love!

As scorned as I am by love, I just love LOVE. So, of course, Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays! While some friends and family dread this commercialized time of the year and are underwhelmed by all the pinks and reds, I love it all! 

I love all the cupids and hearts, the candies and roses, and all the cheesy “Be My Valentine” greeting cards. For friends who have attended my V’s Day gatherings in the past know that to be the case!

For me, LOVE is more than the romantic notions of candlelit dinners and long walks on the beach. It’s about respect, compassion, kindness and generosity. 

My pragmatic dad always says, “Love is not going to keep your stomach full and put a roof over your head.” While he’s accurate about the capitalistic world that we live in, the idealist in me believes we would all be fed and sheltered if everyone truly loved and cared for each other.

While I’m an idealist, I assure you I’m not delusional. I know not everyone we interact with genuinely care beyond themselves and their immediate social circle. Regardless, it gotta start somewhere, from one person. 

So, on this Valentine’s Day (and every day), I encourage my family and friends to do something kind for someone you don’t know or know little of. It doesn’t need to involve giving someone money, but rather acts of kindness, like a “Good Morning” greeting, holding the door for someone behind you, or even letting the other car get into your lane. It’s just something to express that you acknowledged and respect them as humans, as equals, and as members of the same global community.

I truly believe with each kind act, LOVE will blossom, so, at the very least, our hearts can be full and our souls warm!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

My Valentines - Cyrus (5), Julius (3)