Hug someone lonely on Valentine’s Day

Share a sweet cup of tea or a virtual hug with someone every day. Photo: http://bit.ly/cazwdR

Valentine’s Day is upon us and as we venture into the weekend preceding the holiday for lovers, many people are already celebrating with the love of their life. Flowers, dinner, chocolates and diamonds are appearing everywhere!

Or are they?

Many people are not looking forward to the day set aside especially for lovers and people who have someone special in their lives. Instead, they approach this day with dread, anxiety and even depression.

Why?

Perhaps there is no other person in their life. Maybe they’ve experienced divorce or break-ups recently. Or worse, maybe they have lost their spouse, lover, friend or special someone to death.

Most people think of hugging someone they love on Valentine’s Day since it is a day for lovers. But what about those who are alone? Who hugs them?

My father has never enjoyed any holiday since my mother passed away three years ago. He particularly does not look forward to Valentine’s Day, which was one of her favorite days of the year. I recall the year he gave her red felt-covered, plastic roses in a delicate glass vase and told her they were special because they would last forever – and they did, to this day. I am always reminded of how excited she was to receive those plastic roses and how much she loved my father, even if his gifts were less than sentimental by the standards of many.

Whatever the reason, Valentine’s Day is a time to remember everyone in your life. If you know someone who may be lonely and sad on this day for lovers, then consider doing something special for them. Drop a note, make a call, send an email, text a “hello”, share a cup of tea, or make a visit. Simple gestures can make all of the difference in the world.

I am blessed to have a loving husband, two wonderful daughters and sons-in-law, and special grandchildren. But I will also remember those who are lonely on Valentine’s Day too.

February 14 will be filled with surprises and fun for lots of people. Be sure and share part of your day with someone who needs it most – someone who is alone and needs a hug — even if it is a virtual one.