Valentine’s Day is often a day of mixed emotions. For those that have a special person in their life it’s a day to commemorate their  love and special feelings for one another. It often involves gifts, a special meal and romance. Some people dread the day due to the fact that it reminds them that they are single; while others choose not to acknowledge the day because they believe it’s a “capitalist holiday” designed to encourage people to spend money. Many simply honor the day by spending time with their loved ones.

No matter how you feel I want to encourage you to celebrate LOVE today. There’s so much more than being in love or Eros love (passionate love, with sensual desire and longing). There’s self love (sincere appreciation for oneself), Agape love (unconditional love/God’s Love) and Philia love (used for love between family, between friends, a desire or enjoyment of an activity). Whatever the type of love…know that that you are loved!

TO THE VIRGINS, TO MAKE MUCH OF TIME*

GATHER ye rosebuds while ye may,
Old time is still a-flying :
And this same flower that smiles to-day
To-morrow will be dying.

The glorious lamp of heaven, the sun,
The higher he’s a-getting,
The sooner will his race be run,
And nearer he’s to setting.

That age is best which is the first,
When youth and blood are warmer ;
But being spent, the worse, and worst
Times still succeed the former.

Then be not coy, but use your time,
And while ye may go marry :
For having lost but once your prime
You may for ever tarry.

 Wishing you a Valentine’s Day filled with love, happiness + peace!

*TO THE VIRGINS, TO MAKE MUCH OF TIME was written by Robert Herrick