Valentine’s is here again and this year I would like to reflect on another aspect of love.

A group of friends and I were discussing the love aspect of Valentine’s. The conversation moved on to what to give our loved ones and then, we started to explore what we received from our loved ones. It is this receiving and giving aspect of “Love” that made the conversation move to what each one of us valued about the love aspect of a Valentine’s gift.

One explained that she does not need a reminder that is made up. Just because it’s now become a big industry to give someone you love something on Valentine’s, is it more meaningful than a rose given at another time? chocolate? hug? kiss? or something else? Do we need a reminder to tell a loved one we love them? or for them to affirm their love?

As we head towards the holiday season, what are you preparing for? Happy gatherings with friends and family? Bright decorations hanging on the trees, walls and windows? Delicious kitchen aromas wafting by from roasts, sauces and pies? There is charm in all of this and special moments to cherish.

Many of us look back on such things with love and kindness. We experience a longing for the family/tribe we belonged to when we entered this world, the family who cared for us and took us in. Are you, too, expecting love and warmth from those around you this season?