Valentines Day: Another one of those holidays people have intense emotions about, both good and bad; I do not feel strongly either way but observe with purpose.

My ‘Valentine’ is away again this year as it quite often happens. No big deal, I’m not heart broken, distraught or tearing my hair out because I didn’t get a hallmark card, roses and a big-hunk-of-love bear!

I don’t want any of those things. I get plenty of things I do want many times throughout the year because my valentine is a person who works very hard and he shares the fruits of his labor with those I love. My family, friends, and people in need. He took a trip to Israel with my Mother, 79, in tow and looked after her with saintly patience; he’s gives generously to help others make a house payments, pay for surgery, legal representation, needed transportation, provide firewood or buy groceries. He doesn’t just give funds he gives of himself. What precious free time he has, he’ll do consulting pro-bono, fix garage doors, help people move, make car repairs, drive little ladies to the doctor or across the pass to comfort someone with a sick family member, and together we are pros at hospital visits.

I didn’t get big red paper heart; I have Valentine with a real heart filled with compassion and love.

When he is in town, we spend valentine’s day sharing love with others; dinner with old friends, widows or those alone. It seems natural to spend this day sharing love with those around us maybe those who are feeling unloved and need to know someone cares.

One of the sweetest Valentines days I can remember was three years ago. Mine was gone and I went across the street for dinner. I quietly read my messages and watched a little girl at the table next to me happily drawing the pink wild roses that were in the vase on the table. Her parents were in deep conversation about their day and I would occasionally glance over as she would finish one drawing and start another attempting to perfect her art. My dinner came, they finished theirs and left. As she walked past me I looked up and we exchanged smiles. I continued with my dinner and a minute later there was a tap on my shoulder and this beautiful little blond was beside me with one of her drawings in hand. She said, ‘Here this is for you,” and with that she skipped off out the door to where here parents were waiting by the car.

My heart melted and I was filled with joy! Yes, she had it! Spreading joy and love to others. Nice on February 14th but beautiful throughout the year.