Not a fan of Valentine’s Day? Try this instead

I like to honor the “holiday of love” by looking for a loving act of kindness I can do for someone who may not expect it.

Gosh, Valentine’s Day can be a tough holiday! No wonder so many people (almost half of those polled!) don’t plan to celebrate it.

Perhaps you just went through a bad breakup or you’re recently widowed, and a day dedicated to romantic love just hurts. Or maybe you build up high hopes for Valentine’s Day every year, only for them to come crashing down in disappointment.

Although I’m happily married, I’ve never been a big fan of Valentine’s Day. It just feels so forced to me.

I mean, honestly, is a box of chocolates and overpriced roses really a reasonable way to honor St. Valentine? Not to mention a reasonable way to judge the health of a relationship?

If you’re a bit of a Valentine’s Day Scrooge, like me, let me share with you my preferred way to celebrate the holiday.

An act of love

I like to honor the “holiday of love” by looking for a loving act of kindness I can do for someone who may not expect it.

Most years, this involves sending Valentine cards to elderly relatives and neighbors who may not receive one otherwise.

This year, I’m planning to surprise some neighborhood friends with some yummy homemade cookies (if you’re reading this … don’t say anything!). Another lovely idea is to invite friends to an elegant “Galentines” tea party to honor your friendship.

Someone I know is offering to host her friends’ kids for a drop-off Valentine’s Day party so all the parents can go out for a date, which is such a thoughtful idea … but I have to admit I don’t have the courage to watch all my friends’ kids in addition to my own!

Looking for some ways to honor the “holiday of love” in a non-traditional way? I’ve got you covered!

Bring a hot tea or coffee to a co-worker or neighborhood friend
Call a friend you haven’t talked to in a while and share some favorite memories of your friendship
Drop off a surprise, like a homemade snack or card
Write a “snail mail” card to a friend or family member
Send a “thank you” message to someone on social media whose content is helpful to you
Visit Jesus in Adoration and thank him for his love!

What’s your favorite act of kindness or “act of love” for Valentine’s Day? I’d love to hear some new ideas!