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Expecting Love on Valentine’s Day

rosesLove is in the air–or at least it should be–it’s Valentine’s Day!

What are you expecting today? Most of us want to be in a strong and romantic relationship with a perfect mate who gives, says and does exactly as you want him (or her) to but this seldom our reality–even in a happy marriage. We all need to be careful not to let our expectations become unrealistic. Cupid is fun and all, but setting our hopes on his arrow striking a bull’s eye in our lives only leaves us susceptible to disappointment.

It’s no secret that I have let disappointments rob my joy, but I’ve learned that this special day isn’t about roses and chocolates, it’s about being involved and invested in the lives of those we love.

Valentine’s Day 1999 was the only holiday we had with our first daughter. The following year my husband and I decided to throw a memorial gala to celebrate the love others showed us during our loss. For 13 years we continued this tradition. We enjoyed creating an evening for sweethearts to enjoy a dream-date, with a beautiful atmosphere, 5-course meal, flowers and candies. We even brought in a DJ and photographer. Every year we sent the guests home with their hands and hearts full. It was always a lot of fun but I think the best part was the joy in the eyes of the children whose parents were our guests.

Kids feel secure when their parents have fun together and honor each other.

If you have a spouse to love on tonight, don’t let unrealistic expectations rob your joy.

If you are dealing with great disappointment, remember, God will never leave you nor forsake you. Allow that Truth to be your strength to expect a great day.

If you don’t have a sweetheart right now, remember that there is One who sticks closer than a brother, and go honor someone who needs to know they are loved.

Most of all, if you have children, remember that honoring of their dad (or mom) is the best gift you could ever give them. If this is not possible, remember that you are their mom (or dad) and take care of you.

*****

Catrina Welch is an image- and life-coach whose message is not as much “what not to wear” as it is, “Know Who You Are,” which is the title of her book of guidelines for your personal image identity. Catrina has also written a Bible study to help women overcome their confidence conflicts; it is titled Supreme MakeOver: a Rich and Refreshing Devotional Experience. Her other books include Footprints Through the Sand: a Consolidation of Life-altering stories about Loving and Losing a Trisomy-18 Baby and Confident Beauty: Reflecting the One Who Made You with the Images in Your Mirror and Your Soul, which will be available in book stores this spring. All of these books are available now at www.CatrinaWelch.com