- Dr. Andrew St. Bernard

There was a time when I used to be adamantly opposed to Valentine’s Day. The fact there is a holiday to remind you to love your spouse, and all the marketing and sales pressure built up around it had left me feeling jaded. After all, why should we have to be reminded and made to feel guilty about the expressions of love we choose for our significant others? Then with social media posts showcasing what your spouse did for you, showing just how green the proverbial grass is in your neighbors’ yard, Valentine's Day expectations are catapulted through the roof. What was meant to be a day of love becomes one of jealousy and covetousness. Was this what God really intended when he said to love your neighbor as yourself? Of course not. This is the result of consumerism and a complete distraction to what was intended. As I mentioned, this is how I USED to see Valentine’s Day…. until I realized that this view was stealing my joy, and consequently not allowing my love to show.

If you resonate with the way I formerly viewed Valentine's Day, then I want to encourage you. Like I once did, I would say firstly don't take yourself too seriously. Being too serious about everything kills humor, and humor makes love easier. Whether or not you decide to participate in the consumerism of the holiday, take a moment to be grateful for the reminder to love your spouse or significant other. Even though you may already be on top of things, responding in such a way keeps your energy positive, and that will show through whatever you do or say for your loved one. Above all else, don't allow negativity to rob you of your joy. Your attitude is contagious, whether good or bad. It's better to be contagious for joy than the opposite.