LOVE, IT'S A TRICKY BEAST

we all know what day it is. and frankly, i don't mind the holiday as much as some. sure, i hate its commercial origins and feel that love is something to be celebrated on a daily basis rather than once a year, but... there's nothing wrong with a few extra hearts around... and i happen to enjoy the color pink. ^_^

i've been in the interesting position of being able to casually disregard this holiday since elementary school, when bringing in silly heart-covered cards with small candies attached to them was a near-mandatory practice. at the time, asking everybody in the class to "be my valentine" was simply a diversionary tactic necessary to get more candy; it had nothing to do with love and everything to do with chocolate and, of course, avoiding any one particular person's "cooties."

those of you who are lucky enough to be in love, take the chance to celebrate today... give gifts, eat wonderfully, kiss, make love... and look at his or her face... look at the way that extra special treatment is making your other one feel... and remember it. valentine's day doesn't have to happen just once a year. why not celebrate again in a week, in a couple of days, or even tomorrow. you don't need to drop a ton of cash to let someone know you're always thinking of them. steal the hearts and the pink away from the greeting card companies and make them your own. then next year, when valentine's rolls around again, it won't be the day that's important; rather, you'll be able to celebrate another love-filled year with that someone who's made you feel like you're the one and only. then, you too will be able to casually disregard the holiday as i have been able to.

to those who aren't there yet: i can't offer much advice. if i could, i wouldn't be loveless for yet another passing year. actually, strike that. my advice is as follows: surround yourself with loving, caring friends. while there's no substitute for that perfect one-on-one relationship, there's plenty to gain from the people who care about you.

to all the people in my life that make me feel loved rather than lonely: bless you. from my roommates, to my crew from orange who are now dispersed across the planet, to all the wonderful women in my life, thank you all. you make it worth it. 'cause see, many find valentine's day a torturous reminder of what could and should be. instead, i'm reminded just how glad i am that i know how to choose friends wisely. i'm thinking of you all today. hopefully, for a moment, you'll think of me too.

virtual hugs go out to all who read this... if you're here, then this letter is definitely addressed to you.

now it's time to start valentine's off with a bang by hitting phil'z for a cup of coffee... it's like drinking liquid love, anyway... so, have yourself a wonderful day! i know i will... Posted by ryan at February 14, 2005 07:58 AM | TrackBack