Be My Valentine

I'm not a huge fan of Valentine's Day.  It's over-commercialised and, cynically, an opportunity for greedy businesses to further line their pockets by convicning the general public that a mini cupcake in the shape of a heart is an essential purchase.  In fact, the histoy behing the day is the same as other patron saints; to remember the martyrdom of early christians...not really what the card shops would have us believe since they wouldn't make much money from that kind of marketing.

However, the act of showing someone you care for them is often overlooked, whether it be romatically, honouring friendships or simply smiling at a stranger.  And as cliches go this is something that we should remind ourselves of more than once a year.  Lately, I've been trying to build people up and live life so that God's heart is obvious to those around me.  I'm not successful every day, and often those closest to me I fail the most, but with more effort and a huge amount of grace I will persist.  Blessing others can be tiring, it can be draining and it is certainly costly; whether it be time, financially, or emotionally.  But it is SO worth it.

Over time your attitude will change, the community around you will change, and my hope is that, culture will be changed too.  But it has to start with the small things.  Showing people you care is not necessarily about big and expensive lavish gestures, although if these are thoughtful they can be nice too!  It is more about the thinking and intention behind your act.  Will this make them happy?  Be creative...in essence, take TIME to consider what will bring a smile to someone's face.  So what are you waiting for.....is there a friend you haven't spoken to for a while, a parent you haven't thanked or a partner you haven't shown your appreciation to today?  There's really no excuse.  Communication is now easier than ever but our lives are all too busy.  Don't let that become an excuse...prioritise people.  I'm sure Roll Deep hit the nail on the head...
"You just give a little love and it all comes back to you,
You know your gonna be rememberd for the things that you say and do"

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