Valentine special

                     VALENTINE'S DAY RUSH (love/ Intimacy)
    It's the season of love! Everyone is up in the glitz and glamour of the spirit to celebrate.
The traditional approach with flowers, cards and romance work beautifully for some-Women absolutely love the suprises they receive on valentine's day and it's the saddest holiday of the year for all the single people not receiving any of them.
    Valentines Day offers us a unique oppurtunity to undertake a new perspective to how we choose to celebrate love.Many people who find themselves alone on this day,struggle with the past hurts, grief and feelings of inadequacy. While they are bombarded with images of happy couples; it is important that they remember that their identity is not defined by their relationship status. A person's worth comes from who they are' not who they are with.
While most would agree that this is true; it doesn't dull the inevitable feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy that arises when the besieged by the ubiquitous love at every turn.
 
   SO HOW TO DEAL WITH THE FEELINGS when colleagues receive flowers' lovers seem to be everywhere and romantic cards take over every store front?
While some choose to avoid the day by staying at home, or just take steps to avoid "happy couples" it seems that a different approach might pffer a more gratifying result.
    WHAT ABOUT A PERSPECTIVE CHANGE?
What if we were to adopt the idea of valentine's day is just not for couples, but for everybody? While your friends might be buying flowers for their partners; consider the people in your world that you love, and that love you back.
   For those who struggle with this day; it might be helpful to spend time with friends or family-people with whom you have already established positive' loving relationships. It could be atime to focus on what you have rather than on what you feel you're missing. Invite your single friends over for dinner; go to see a block buster movie..mtake chocolates to neighbour who is always there for you.
Something special for your mum; a telephone call to your Dad. Perhaps your daughter would appreciate flowers as much as any lover would. Maybe spending the evening with your son watching football would be a way to express your particular brand to love. Random acts of kindness can bring a surprisingly wonderful sense of well-being.

As with anything in life' being prepared for a challenging situation can make all the difference in the world. Don't let another valentines day sneak up on you to only show love to people.
All other days can be set aside to make people feel appreciated; saying thank you; smiling to someone; giving a helping hand; complementing your boss. All other days could make you feel good and above all; surround yourself with people who comfort and sustain you.
   This valentine's day; offer yourself the same thing you give to all of the loved ones in your life and make the effort to show yourslf a little love.
                                            -Tomie's writing series.