The TRUE GIFT OF VALENTINE'S DAY

Celebrating yet another February 14th, I began to think about St. Valentine Days past and the various gifts received over the years.

First love roses have particular importance, the first tangible evidence of love’s proclamation even though they wither as first loves inevitably do. Chocolate and jewelry are a strong second, from both those we love and those who love us, especially from our children.

It is particularly poignant to receive a grubby crayoned card from our little ones, as it brings back memories of our first feelings of affection for someone other than our parents. I wrote about my childhood love earlier, my first boyfriend and his kiss by which all others are measured.

My Valentines now are shared by the knowledge of freedom to do what we know makes us happy. A romantic dinner and show was suddenly replaced by the call to perform in Pennsylvania, something for which he knew needed no permission; I know he would have done the same for me.

It makes me realize how much a part of love contains the element of trust.

To know someone as well as you know yourself is a cherished gift you give to each of you. Freedom notwithstanding, the ability to let our loves go, knowing they will return to us two fold, is the greatest gift of all, the true gift from one Valentine to another.

I hope you had a wonderful St. Valentine’s Day. I think this was the best one yet.