It’s another Valentine’s Day and as I thought about what to write for today, suddenly I realised Oh, it’s Valentine’s! I recall my chance meeting with a petite middle-aged lady last year’s Valentine’s Day. We met at Cherubic Saints orphanage where I had accompanied a friend for investigations on the adoption process. Christine, as she introduced herself with a smile and an outstretched hand, had such a pleasant and interesting personality. I was so taken in by the charm she exuded and the fact that she had thoughtfully packaged red tee shirts for the workers at the orphanage and accompanied them with sacksful of assorted goodies for the children in the orphanage. I voiced my admiration for her generosity, and she gave me the background to her interpretation and expression of Valentine’s Day.

Christine’s narrative: I had always enjoyed the gifts and outings my husband showered on me on Valentine’s Day until he was called to the heavens 5 years ago. The first Valentine’s Day after that was so sad and lonely as I missed him so much on that day. The next year, the children opened my eyes by expressing their love for me in a unique way. They gave me a treat I will never forget that etched the love they have for me deeply into my subconscious. In my part of the country. Children are referred to as “my husband” and they indeed played the part on his behalf. My children had cut fresh flowers from the garden and made a beautiful bouquet which they placed in a beautiful vase and brought up to me with my favorite tea, in bed. What a beautiful wake-up moment. When I was done and walked into the bathroom to take a bath, they had transformed the mood and ambiance, of the bathroom. They had placed some swirling-coloured lights, and scented rose petals on the floor and had run the bath and placed a book and my favorite drink beside it. I was enthralled but confused. It wasn’t my birthday…what was going on? Then it hit me like a thunderbolt…It was Valentine’s Day! I was so overwhelmed, that tears of joy cascaded down my cheeks and as I stepped into the kitchen, I found a beautifully laid out breakfast, prepared by hands of love from hearts of love. Honestly, they blew my mind. I saw Valentine’s Day from a new perspective…not just receiving expensive gifts and outings, but rather a day to show true love through innovative giving. I soon realised that what the children did was not expensive but was VERY THOUGHTFUL and required ingenuity and giving of themselves from the heart.

So, the next Valentine’s Day, I sought to bring joy to those I see sweeping the streets – an important labour that is hardly rewarded adequately. I cannot forget the smiles, prayers, and gratitude that my giving elicited on that day. If only we would take that day to truly share love because all men are deserving of love. The holy book says we should love God first and next, love ALL humanity.”

As I left the orphanage that day, I determined to ensure that I share the love with others as often as possible and at least on the 14^th of February each year. Christine left her imprint on me; I hope she does on you too. Remember, it does not have to be expensive, merely ingenious. Is it making an uncommon dish and giving people in packs? Or those clothes hanging in your wardrobe unused for years? There is no limit to what can be done to put a smile on people’s faces and joy in their hearts. When we truly understand what love is about, we will experience joy unending and the peace that passes all understanding. HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY!

Love

Havilah