Life Inspires Me

Archive for February, 2009

If you are familiar with Western Christianity, it’s Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent. A forty-day-long season of fasting and prayer before Easter, which represents the time Jesus spent in the desert. Let’s fast-forward to current day; I can’t go sit in the desert for forty days. I live in the Snowy Mitten [Michigan] with no desert in sight. The bigger picture behind Lent is forty days of challenging yourself for the better. Today marks the start of my challenge.

Are you up for a challenge?

Do you remember Valentine’s Day growing up?  

In elementary school my class would exchange valentines. It was silly but also really sweet. You walk around the classroom passing out little valentine’s… I think if I were to do it today, my valentine’s would be superheros or dinosaurs.

As we’ve grown up, we say adios to the simple tradition of brightening someone’s day. People no longer have to play fair, people have the choice. The choice to spend Valentine’s Day with a “sweetheart”…. As adults, we decide what to make of our Valentine’s Day. I’m not fond of the “corporate idea” behind Valentine’s Day. To me Valentine’s Day isn’t about having a sweet heart or romantic plans. I don’t have either and it doesn’t bother me.

A friend came to me asking what kind of flowers to get this girl he likes… why should it be a big deal.  People put more effort into things that really aren’t that hard of decisions. My advice was- get her the first flowers that catch your eye and make you think of her.

Valentine’s Day is about the appreciation of the ones around me who hold a special place in my heart.  This is my valentine to you.

Happy Valentine’s Day! ♥