Valentine's Day Blues

I live up the street from a florist. For weeks large red wooden hearts framed in lights have adorned the flower shop's yard and trees. Pink, red, and white balloons wave in the wind. It's a beautiful sight--especially at night. But, each time I drive or walk by, twinges of loneliness, regret, and yes, envy, prick my single gal's heart when this lovely display comes into view.

Many of us who are single, even temporarily, would like to tear February 14th from the calendar, just jump from February 13th to 15th. From television commercials to grocery stores to card shops, heart-shaped candy boxes, cards, and balloons serve as painful reminders of our lack of a romantic relationship. How do we overcome the "Valentine's Day Blues"?

Remind yourself of God's love for you. This is first, last, and always. My Bible study lesson this week just happened to include a section about God's love for me. As I worked read Bible passages about God's love and answered the study questions, I realized how much I know about God's love in my head, but how little I truly realize the magnitude and significance of His love in my heart, or live it out in my life. Ladies, we are loved by the God of the universe, and there is no greater love on earth or in heaven. One of my favorite "love" verses in the Bible is Jeremiah 31:3: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving kindness." His love for us is permanent, steadfast, and will never fail.

Celebrate with other single women. Organize a Valentine's Day friendship party for women who are alone. Don't forget to include widows and those whose husbands are deployed in your celebration. Decorate with hearts, balloons, and flowers. Give each woman a valentine treat. Celebrate the blessings of friendship.

Give to others. Recently divorced, a friend of mine gives the single women at work small boxes of Valentine candy and a card. Her gifts remind the women that they are special, as well as help my friend keep her focus off her own loneliness.

Treat yourself. Are you like me? Do you hesitate to purchase flowers for yourself? Flowers have a way of lifting our spirits like nothing else--especially on these dark winter days. Treat yourself to a bouquet of flowers today. Hmm, perhaps I need to stop by that florist at the end of my street.

What about you? What tips do you have for overcoming the "Valentine's Day Blues"?