valentines day bliss: Embracing singlehood and the power of gratitude

Embracing Freedom: Reflections on Love and Self-Discovery This Valentine’s Day

Yesterday marked Valentine’s Day, a day often filled with heart-shaped everything and an onslaught of Hallmark-inspired messages. As I navigated through the sea of pink and red, I found myself reflecting on my own journey—a journey that has led me to a profound sense of excitement about the future, fueled by my newfound freedom.

My relationship with love has always been complex. Growing up as the only divorced, non-practicing Catholic in a family where my parents celebrated 65 years of marriage, I often felt like an outlier. For years, I struggled to understand my feelings towards relationships. While many find comfort and stability in monogamy, I began to see it as a potential limitation. Now, I fully acknowledge that this perspective isn’t universal—many thrive in committed partnerships, and that’s perfectly okay. However, for me, envisioning a future with just one person often felt like peering into a narrowing tunnel, closing in around us both.

Love is a deep, multifaceted emotion for me, and I often find myself contemplating what’s best not just for me, but for my partner as well. I’ve come to realize that being in a long-term relationship sometimes dulled my spirit. I didn’t like the person I became; I felt stagnant and uninspired. Through deep contemplation, I discovered that I could create a vision for my life—one filled with happiness, success, and peace—by embracing the freedom of choice.

Now, I treat every day like a spa day, prioritizing my well-being in every way possible. I listen to my body, mind, and spirit, responding to their needs with care. I surround myself with beauty—objects, experiences, and people that resonate with my soul. I’ve dedicated time to studying and improving every aspect of my life, from nutrition and fitness to mindfulness and relationships. Tracking my progress has become a source of joy and motivation.

Setting boundaries has also become essential. I’ve learned to be selective about where I invest my energy, ensuring that it aligns with my values and aspirations. This intentional approach to life has transformed my perspective on love and relationships. I’m no longer confined by societal expectations or norms; instead, I’m free to explore what brings me genuine fulfillment.

So, as I reflect on this Valentine’s Day, I celebrate not just romantic love but the love I have for myself and the life I’m creating. It’s a life filled with possibilities, where I have the freedom to choose my path and embrace the beauty that surrounds me. Here’s to the journey of self-discovery, and to finding joy in every moment!

---