You Are Loved {republished}

This post was published last Valentine's Day on a blog that I started for more "serious" writing but eventually abandoned. Since AmandaBeth is now a place for much more than just fashion, I decided to republish it here (with a few little tweaks) for anyone who missed it.

Today is a special day known as Valentine's. It's a holiday meant to celebrate love, romance and, of course... sell lots and lots of themed merchandise. Couples everywhere look forward to this day; a set time to spend with their special someone. Everywhere you go, romance is in the air. In your face. Impossible to escape. If you aren't watching guys buying roses for their girl, or listening to your best friend's dinner plans, you're thinking about your own prospects for the holiday.

For some of us, there isn't a whole lot on the schedule. 

And, for me, that's ok. 

I have never had a boyfriend. This was not because I couldn't get one (just to clarify that important point ;) but because I do not intend to enter into a serious relationship until I have found the man I intend to marry. At present, I don't feel ready for that chapter of my life... and he is yet to make his appearance. ;)

That means that I will not have a date on Valentine's Day. 

I'm 100% fine with that.

This may sound terribly corny, but I do like to say that Jesus is my Valentine... my beginning and my end. He is the one who holds my heart and satisfies my soul in a way that no human being ever could. He walks with me, listens to my endless talking, and holds my hand. He's the best dance partner in the universe.

As if that wasn't awesome enough, there is my family, both biological and in spirit. It is impossible to be alone on Valentine's Day when you are swarmed with great friends and a gazillion super siblings. In fact, I am a firm believer that this holiday is not just for couples. It is about so much more than romantic love. It is meant to be shared by best friends, siblings, cousins, parents and their children... and the list goes on and on. Who says we can't take this time to show our love to everyone around us, instead of just focusing on one person? If we did, I think it could be even more beautiful.

For those of you who have anticipated Valentine's as little more than "Single Awareness Day," for those of you who are lonely, for those of you who are hurting, for those of you who are broken hearted... know that you are loved. 

If I could, I would give each one of you a hug myself... but Jesus is always waiting for you with open arms. He will never abandon you, let you down or break your heart. In fact, he's the only one with a glue gun big enough to repair the damage that has already been done. His hands are healing and His words are love.

So maybe, just maybe we should take time today to share His love with others, regardless of who they are or where we might be. Instead of just focusing on ourselves, let's think about reaching out to others who may be lonely on Valentine's Day... whether it's a neighbor down the street or an older family member who has lost their spouse. Taking the time to brighten someone's day can only end up warming our own hearts in return.

Remember, if romantic love is what we are looking forward to as our ultimate fulfillment and end, we will never be satisfied. Jesus is the only one who can truly complete and content us, and when He is the first love of our life... everything else will fall into place. :)


-Amanda


Image: Tumblr