I remember a few years ago, as Valentine's Day was drawing near, I was thinking about the fact that I was single, and I had to embrace that fact. Valentine's Day can be a very challenging day for some people. The media is rolling in love, with romantic movies playing on T.V., special Valentine's Day-themed episodes, candy exploding in all of the stores, and hearts popping out wherever you go. It seems like this holiday is only for a select few–the ones who are in a relationship. Not so. Whether you are single or in a relationship, you can still participate, and if you just so happen to be single, embrace it because there are so many beautiful things about being single.
Being single can actually be a very critical time for personal growth and formation. We have to be able to know who we are before we can share ourselves with another person. We have to be able to be comfortable with who we are before we find gratification in another. If not, we may not be able to see our worth without that person. We have to know that we don't need a significant other to know our own value.
As a Christian, I see being single as a much-needed time to grow in my relationship with Christ. Of course, it is equally important to grow closer to Christ while in a relationship with someone, but we have to make sure that he is our number one before we start to give ourselves to someone else. Our fulfillment does not lie in a significant other but only in the One who created us, only in the One who loves us more than anyone else could. If you feel lonely this Valentine's Day, remember that you are not alone. Jesus desires your heart more than any man or woman ever could. Run to him to give him your heart. Let him be your Valentine.
Surround yourself with a group of people you love, and celebrate your love for each other. Valentine's Day shouldn't be just for significant others. Remind those around you how much you love them! Be thankful for all the wonderful people you love in your life and who love you, too. Get out and do something fun with your girlfriends or guy friends.
Happy Valentine's Day, and always remember that someone loves you!
