I will partake. I always do. And, I like it. I love holidays. I love the opportunity to go shopping (another excuse) or be crafty to create the perfect declaration for my beloved. But, I know, as most of you that those trinkets do not really represent the depth of our feelings. I have just fallen for the racket. And that is ok.
This year, however, I have been having a bit more reflection on this holiday. Personally, it has been a year of growth and awareness of what is most important to me. I feel so blessed and happy for my family, friends and wonderful life. Valentine’s Day is one more opportunity for me to tell those close to me how much I care.
Beyond that, this year, more than ever, is a time to reflect on broader declarations of love. Fear is running rampant in all corners of society. People are stressed and anxious. Editorial Columnists are writing about it every day. They are encouraging hope and faith. I particularly liked the message of togetherness communicated by one yesterday. She didn’t sugar coat it. It sucks. She did however point out something very simple but profound – we are in this together. Just like we are in this life together, on this planet together and when we die we will also join together in that.
What better time than on the upcoming day of love for us to open our hearts beyond our sweethearts, children or friends. What better time to focus love on our fellow travelers, our planet, ourselves. Now is the time, if we have not done so already, to begin the practice of unconditional love. For any of you familiar with A Course in Miracles and its interpretation written by Marianne Williamson, you know that now more than ever we must let go of all of the fears that grip our conscious and unconscious selves and begin the practice of love. Love is the true healer of all woes.
It’s a simple practice really. Simple AND one of the most difficult. To think and act lovingly. To work towards eliminating negative thoughts and replace them with love. To think about why we do some of the things we do. Like gossip. Why do we do that? Or, despite our best efforts, picture ourselves better than another. Why do we do that? Or try to control someone else or a situation. Why do we do that? Or, question ourselves beyond reason to the point where we deduce our value. Why do we do that? There are a million more. I can’t answer each one except to say that from my experience, fear is usually at the root.
Some of us have the ability to start this practice at any point. For others, a little extra encouragement is needed like that of New Year’s when we take the time to make resolutions. There is no better day than Valentine’s to begin the practice of unconditional love. This practice does come with a warning however. Some may not be comfortable with this new practice (one of them being your Ego!). That is because they are still steeped in fear. However, love has a way of rubbing off. So, stay vigilant and there will be results. The most miraculous one is that you will actually feel better and more at peace. And we all need a little peace right now!
“Fear less, hope more; Eat less, chew more; Whine less, breathe more; Talk less, say more; Love more, and all good things will be yours”
-Swedish Proverb
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