Happy (belated) Valentine’s Day! – A day of love from me to you.

Yesterday was a day of love.

There are many people who dislike the commercial aspect of Valentine’s Day.

But I tend to love it.

It’s an excuse to remind a few people that they are important. And loved. And not forgotten.

This year was a hard day but I survived. Especially because of all the love in my life.

Often, I have been in a position to give love. I love dropping off flowers, baking and writing special cards.

Sometimes it can be easier to give love than it can be to receive love. This year I definitely received love. I am so grateful for the well wishes of the people I love and those that love me. I am so incredibly lucky to have the absolute best people in my life.

If you don’t know me – I do my best to act with love in everything that I do. It could be cuddling with pets.

My friend Celeste’s puppy – Evie (insta @heyhiceleste)

Giving one of those really amazing hugs.

Cooking with love.

Singing to the cheese in my fridge with love. (yes this did happen but I’ve become self-conscious about it and I don’t think it has happened since… but I still think it is funny)

Really truly listening.

Even listening to that unloved part of ourselves. It could be our guilt from a place of privilege. It could be our lack of privilege. It could be frustration from being unable to put food on the table, or buy chocolates today. It could be mourning love. It could be the part of you that doesn’t want to love life right now (and maybe even doesn’t like Valentine’s Day!). It could be the part that procrastinates. It could be the part that works too hard and doesn’t spend time with those you love. It could be mourning dreams. Sometimes we need some time to lick our wounds, give ourselves a moment, maybe a bit more love – and then work with what we have.

I hope for you this Valentine’s Day you can appreciate and give love for the best parts of who you are. And maybe – maybe- find room in your heart for the part of all of us that needs it the most – the unloved part. As we all find love for ourselves it can help us to find space to accept others as they are.

And right now – the world could use a bit more love.

Is there a place, person, part of you, (or even a food) – that you tend to judge that could maybe use a bit more love today? Is there a food you love to celebrate? Is there a part of you that you are incredibly proud of? Please feel free to share if you feel comfortable.

Sending you (and me) love,

Happy (belated) Valentine’s day,

Irena

Ps. I am working on accepting the late part of me…