I grew up Catholic. Part of the Catholic Mass is the Sign of Peace, in which one turns to others
and offers a sign of peace by shaking hands and saying, "Peace be with you." Several times I have found myself in the
awkward position of standing there alone because the people around me turned to others first.
So I would look around, waiting for my chance to offer my handshake and sign of peace.
Even though the moment lasts a few seconds, it seems like a lifetime standing there alone in a crowd of people.
This is how my life feels to me. Relationship-wise, I have never had someone I could turn to first; and no one
that would do likewise with me... no significant other. Once again I will spend Valentine's Day sending out a few
valentines to family and friends, but no one who is truly MY VALENTINE. Once again
this wonderful holiday, I am standing there alone.
I do not write this to seek your pity. I write this for another reason: if you the reader have a significant
other in your life, someone you know you know you can turn to and vice versa, I want you to celebrate this holiday
to its fullest.
Hug, hold, and kiss that person.
Tell that person how much they mean to you.
LOVE that person.
Think to yourself how damn lucky you are in this world;
and think kindly upon those who are not as lucky as you.
Happy Valentine's Day 1999