Valentine's Cynic or Realist?

By Lucinda Murtagh


Yes, we all know it: Valentine's Day has become an enormous pain in the purse! Oh, the guilt of forgetting! The stress of keeping it original. The constant in-your-face advertisements for the endless products which simply must be bought to prove your love. Cynical? Yes. Realistic? Perhaps. Okay, I agree that one day devoted to your loved one is a fair idea.

But, heydo we all have that special someone with whom to rejoice? What about those of us who are single? Divorced? Bereaved? It doesn't take a cynic to realise that Valentine's Day is a cruel reminder of a life lived solo. The gall of it: to rub the noses of all unhappy singletons in the fact that they are not one half of a whole. Face facts, they are assaulted at every turn by reminders in the form of schmaltzy cards, television advertisements, restaurant offers and supermarkets crammed with novelty Valentine gift ideas.

What about considering the people in your world that mean everything to you, who you love unconditionally and who love you back? So, whilst your friends may be buying flowers and chocolates for they partners, why not send something special to your mother, your father, daughter or best friend? Random acts of kindness can bring a surprisingly wonderful sense of well-being. This really could become the time when you focus on what you do have, rather than on what you feel you're missing.

Not enough fun for you? Why not take this as an opportunity to meet new people, to create novel experiences for yourself? There are so many fantastic events organised for singletons; quite enough to forget all that Valentine's Day sop. Join up with a group of single friends and try speed-dating. A courtesy glass of Bellini, loads of interesting introductions and cheerful chat sum up the Valentine 'bash' a tHome House of Portman Square, called 'One to One in 21'. Try it: I have and it was worth it.

So celebrate! With others in the same boat! Yes, I like the more positive me! No need to dwell on the commercialism and clap-trap of this day. Make it special by taking control and celebrating love: just for yourself!




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